Oil Sands Rebound in 2019 Hinges on Rail, Output Cuts, Pipeline

Oil Sands Rebound in 2019 Hinges on Rail, Output Cuts, Pipeline
A pump jack operates in the Permian Basin oil production area near Wink, Texas on Aug. 22, 2018. Nick Oxford/Reuters
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The Canadian oil industry could be in for another turbulent year in 2019, depending on how some pivotal events pan out.

Government-mandated production cuts and the potential startup of a key crude pipeline are among key developments to watch for next year. Here’s a look at each one:

Production Curtailments

While the announcement of production curtailments by Premier Rachel Notley has succeeded in lifting Canadian crude prices from record lows even before their implementation starts next month, the province’s ability to wind down that policy without crashing the market will be crucial.