Canadian oil producers are banking on this expanded route to feed a growing hunger for crude, particularly in China. As the world’s largest oil importer, China solidified its position as Canada's top customer last year by snapping up 200,000 barrels per day. The ongoing instability in the Middle East has only accelerated this trend, forcing Asian refineries to lean more heavily on Canadian supplies to offset supply gaps originating from Gulf states.

Trans Mountain Corp. is already moving to address the shortfall, signaling plans for an open season to secure commitments for an additional 72,000 barrels daily. CEO Mark Maki confirmed that the integration of anti-drag agents will unlock another 90,000 barrels of daily capacity. Looking further ahead, the company aims to push total throughput to 1.2 million barrels per day by 2029. Alberta continues to explore a second pipeline project to the British Columbia coast capable of moving 1 million barrels daily, though the proposal faces significant pushback from environmental groups.