Canadian Propane Association joins Canada-Japan energy mission

February 12, 2025 By Brian Richesson

Canadian Propane Association (CPA) President and CEO Shannon Watt joined senior Alberta government officials, industry representatives and Indigenous leaders on a Canada-Japan energy mission from Jan. 29 to Feb. 6.

Organized by Energy for a Secure Future and supported by the Alberta government, the mission aimed to diversify Canada’s energy export channels. The undertaking was timely, CPA says, given the focus of expanding propane’s international markets.

“This energy mission highlights the strategic importance of diversifying Canada’s export channels and building strong international partnerships,” Watt says. “Through dialogue and collaboration with Japan, we can showcase how Canadian propane’s lower-carbon footprint meets the growing demand for reliable, sustainable energy solutions.”

The delegation met with Japanese government officials and industry associations to explore bilateral energy opportunities, emphasizing the environmental, geopolitical and economic advantages of Canadian natural gas liquids, including propane.

Watt participated in key meetings and panels to discuss the growth potential of Canada’s liquefied natural gas sector, the rising demand for propane exports and how a Canada-Japan energy partnership can drive low-emission solutions.

Canadian propane exports to Asia have seen remarkable growth, increasing from virtually zero in 2018 to approximately $1.6 billion in 2023. This surge reflects Asian markets’ increasing demand for affordable, lower-emission energy alternatives to oil and coal. Propane’s versatility and efficiency, particularly as a heating fuel, make it an ideal solution for Japan’s energy needs, CPA adds.

“Canadian propane, with its lower carbon footprint, is uniquely positioned to support Japan’s decarbonization efforts,” Watt says. “By collaborating with Japan, we can demonstrate how Canadian propane meets the demand for sustainable energy solutions while enhancing energy security in a complex geopolitical landscape.”

CPA says its participation in the mission highlights the growing role of propane in Canada’s energy export strategy and its importance in addressing global energy challenges.

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