Why does the CEO of Canada Development Investment Corp. argue that the Canadian government should retain long-term ownership of the Trans Mountain pipeline?

Elizabeth Wademan, CEO of Canada Development Investment Corp., argues that the government should hold onto Trans Mountain long term because it is a 'strategic' asset that provides critical market access for Canadian oil—especially amid shifting global dynamics, such as increased demand from Asian markets (including China and South Korea) seeking alternatives to Middle Eastern supply due to the Iran War—and because the expanded pipeline has unlocked significant export capacity, enhancing the price Canadian producers receive.

What are the current operational status and near-term expansion plans for the Trans Mountain pipeline?

The Trans Mountain pipeline operated at over 95% capacity in April, shipping 850,000 barrels per day out of its expanded 890,000-barrel-per-day capacity achieved in 2024, and the company is planning to expand capacity to nearly 1.2 million barrels per day within the next couple of years, with final tolls still under negotiation among Trans Mountain, shippers, and the Canada Energy Regulator.

Canada Should Keep Owning Trans Mountain, Crown Corp. CEO Says

May 11, 2026

Trans Mountain CEO Elizabeth Wademan advocates for continued Canadian government ownership of the oil pipeline due to its strategic value amid rising global demand. Expansion plans aim to reach 1.2 million barrels per day, delaying any potential privatization until toll negotiations conclude.

bloomberg

2026-05-11

Canada Should Keep Owning Trans Mountain, Crown Corp. CEO Says

Canada Should Keep Owning Trans Mountain, Crown Corp. CEO Says

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