Ontario, Alberta and Saskatchewan have signed a memorandum of understanding to build key energy- and trade-related infrastructure such as new pipelines and rail lines in an effort to share critical minerals and oil and gas.

Premier Doug Ford, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe signed the deal on July 22, as the First Ministers’ meeting in Huntsville wrapped up.

“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 the new pipelines to be built using Ontario steel along a route that will connect western Canadian oil and gas to new and existing refineries in southern Ontario, as well as a new deep-sea port in James Bay. It also calls for new rail lines, also built using Ontario steel, to connect critical mineral deposits located in Ontario’s Ring of Fire region to ports in Western Canada.

“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. By advancing pipelines, rail connections and critical-mineral processing capacity, we are safeguarding thousands of jobs, strengthening our energy security and fostering sustainable growth.”

The premiers say the initiative reflects a shared commitment to supporting workers and industries across provincial boundaries while reducing Canada’s reliance on any single trading partner.

“We’re taking action to grow our economy, build real infrastructure and get major projects moving,” said Smith. “Alberta is proud to lead the way in uniting with provinces that share a vision for responsible development, economic freedom and common sense. We’re standing up for our oil and gas sector and making sure our world-class resources reach the markets that need them. Together, Alberta, Ontario and Saskatchewan are showing what’s possible when provinces step up. This agreement is about building a stronger, more connected Canada, one project at a time.”

As part of the agreement, the three provinces will advocate for a more competitive federal regulatory environment alongside an updated federal review process based on the “One Project, One Process” principle with deference to provincial processes. Each province also reaffirmed its commitment to fulfilling its duty to consult with Indigenous communities and to support meaningful participation in economic opportunities for Indigenous communities and proponents, including through equity partnerships in major projects.

In 2023, Ontario exported $183.9 billion of goods and services to other provinces and territories and imported $142.7 billion, resulting in two-way trade of $326.6 billion and a trade surplus of $41.2 billion.