Saskatchewan has joined Ontario and Alberta in a new agreement to develop pipelines, rail lines and other infrastructure aimed at expanding Canada’s energy and critical minerals trade.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith welcomed Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe in signing the memorandum of understanding (MOU) on Monday.
“As the world grapples with President Trump’s unfair tariffs, it’s more important than ever to build a resilient and self-reliant economy here at home,” said Ford. “This agreement sends a clear message: Ontario, Alberta and Saskatchewan are ready to get shovels in the ground and move forward on projects that will secure our long-term prosperity.”
The agreement calls for pipelines—built with Ontario steel—to transport oil and gas from Western Canada to refineries in southern Ontario and a proposed deep-sea port in James Bay. It also includes new rail infrastructure to connect critical minerals from Ontario’s Ring of Fire region to western ports.
“We are sending a clear signal that Canada’s energy future will be built by Canadians, for Canadians,” said Moe. “This agreement commits our provinces to work together to unlock new markets, shore up our supply chains from mine to port and advocate for the federal reforms our industry needs.”
The provinces say the coordinated effort will accelerate large-scale projects, strengthen energy security and support jobs across regional economies.
Premier Smith said the deal reflects a shared commitment to responsible development and economic freedom.
“We’re standing up for our oil and gas sector and making sure our world-class resources reach the markets that need them,” said Smith. “Together, Alberta, Ontario and Saskatchewan are showing what’s possible when provinces step up.”
The agreement also includes a commitment to push for regulatory reform at the federal level, based on a “One Project, One Process” approach with deference to provincial authority. All three provinces reaffirmed their duty to consult with Indigenous communities and support meaningful participation in major projects, including through equity partnerships.
The MOU builds on Ontario’s recent efforts to reduce internal trade barriers. Since April, the province has signed 10 similar agreements with other jurisdictions. Ontario also passed the Protect Ontario Through Free Trade Within Canada Act, becoming the first in Canada to eliminate all party-specific exceptions under the Canadian Free Trade Agreement.
