2026 Fireside Chat Series: Global Shifts, Local Stakes: Competing in a Fragmented Energy World

Session 1

Moderated by: Bob Larocque, President & CEO, Canadian Fuels Association
Featuring: Steve Verheul, Canadian Co-Chair, Coalition for North American Trade; Robert Johnston, Director of Energy and Natural Resources, University of Calgary School of Public Policy; and Uday Turaga, ADI Analytics

Following the fifth annual Canadian Fuels Association (CFA) Awards of Excellence, industry leaders, policymakers, and experts gathered for the 2026 Fireside Chat Series, Global Shifts, Local Stakes: Competing in a Fragmented Energy World.

The discussions explored how global trade disputes, geopolitical uncertainty, changing energy markets, and new technologies are affecting Canada’s economy and energy sector. Through two engaging conversations, speakers examined the challenges and opportunities facing Canada’s transportation fuels sector and the broader economy.

The first panel brought together experts in trade, energy, and market analysis to discuss the global forces shaping Canada’s competitiveness.

A central theme was the growing uncertainty surrounding global trade and investment. Speakers noted that tariffs, geopolitical tensions, and changing international relationships are making it harder for businesses to make long-term investment decisions. As Canada navigates an increasingly complex global environment, the importance of stable and predictable trade relationships was highlighted throughout the discussion.

“The key interest is in getting back to an integrated North American market and trying to find some way to stabilize that, so that we can have some long-term predictability and investors can start investing and making long-term plans.”
— Steve Verheul

The conversation also explored the growing connection between energy security and economic security. Speakers emphasized that reliable access to energy is increasingly influencing trade relationships, industrial competitiveness, and a country’s ability to withstand economic and energy disruptions.

As countries work to reduce emissions while continuing to meet growing energy demand, panelists discussed Canada’s unique position as a reliable supplier of energy and energy products. They noted that no single energy source will meet future demand on its own, and that a mix of fuels, electricity, and emerging technologies will be needed for decades to come.

“The question remains, for whatever crude demand is left, who gets to supply it? And I think Canada has more leverage in that discussion than it did in the past.”
— Robert Johnston

The panel also examined how energy systems are evolving around the world, highlighting the need to balance affordability, reliability, and emissions reduction goals. While electrification continues to expand in many jurisdictions, speakers noted that conventional fuels will continue to play an important role in meeting transportation and industrial energy needs.

“Energy is often framed as a binary choice—electrification versus fuels—but real-world systems don’t transition that way. Even in markets like China that are advancing rapidly on electrification, liquid fuels remain a core part of the system. It’s not an either-or choice.” — Uday Turaga

Session 2

Moderated by: Lisa Stilborn, Vice-President, Public Affairs, Canadian Fuels Association
Featuring: Honourable Kody Blois, Member of Parliament for Kings-Hants and Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister

The second fireside chat featured a conversation focused on Canada’s economic priorities, productivity, infrastructure development, and opportunities to strengthen competitiveness.

The discussion highlighted the importance of creating conditions that support investment, innovation, and economic growth. Topics included improving regulatory efficiency, building critical infrastructure, and ensuring Canada remains an attractive destination for investment in an increasingly competitive global marketplace.

Artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies, both risks and opportunities, were also explored, alongside the infrastructure and energy needed to support them.

Throughout the conversation, energy was recognized as a foundational element of Canada’s economic success, supporting communities, businesses, trade, and long-term prosperity.

“We really are at a critical moment for the country. The focus now is on getting major projects built, strengthening our economy, and making sure Canada can compete in a changing world.” — Honourable Kody Blois

Across both discussions, one message was clear: in an increasingly uncertain world, Canada’s ability to remain competitive will depend on attracting investment, strengthening energy security, building critical infrastructure, and leveraging its natural advantages to support economic growth.

The 2026 Fireside Chat Series provided valuable insights into the opportunities and challenges ahead, reinforcing the important role Canada’s transportation fuels sector plays in supporting economic prosperity, energy reliability, and Canada’s long-term success.

Looking Ahead

CFA extends its sincere thanks to the speakers, members, award recipients and guests who joined us for this year’s Fireside Chat Series. From exploring the implications of a changing geopolitical landscape to examining the role of energy security, investment, and innovation in Canada’s future, the conversations highlighted both the challenges and opportunities facing our sector.

As Canada navigates an increasingly complex and competitive global environment, the insights shared throughout the day reinforced the importance of collaboration, long-term thinking, and practical solutions. We look forward to continuing these conversations and working together to strengthen Canada’s energy future in the years ahead.