Destinations

Great News For Canada


The Canadian tourism industry is in celebration mode as Destination Canada released the final numbers for 2016 which show that Canada welcomed 19,979,334 travellers last year – that’s the highest number since 2002 and second highest ever.

International arrivals increased by 16% in Destination Canada’s overseas markets, and 10% in the US market, for an average of 11% growth across the board.

The Honourable Bardish Chagger, Leader of the Government in the House of Commons and Minister of Small Business and Tourism, said:

“Congratulations to the Canadian tourism industry on an incredible 2016 – so excited to work together to ensure this growth continues.”

The minister continued:

“As we celebrate Canada’s 150th birthday this year, let’s also celebrate our tourism operators and industry leaders and recognize their role in supporting economic growth for middle class Canadians.”

Destination Canada’s CEO and president, David Goldstein said:

“This is great news. Canada is open, welcoming and has something for everyone and people are seeing that. Together with our industry partners, we are encouraging travellers to explore Canada and experience a life less ordinary. I couldn’t think of a better time to visit than right now.”

2016 was the best year for Canadian tourism in 14 years, only 0.4% below the record set in 2002.

Arrivals from Destination Canada’s 10 overseas markets increased by 16% over 2015 levels.

A record-breaking number of US travellers arrived by air to Canada, an increase of over 17% over 2015.

And new arrivals records were set in the following Destination Canada markets:

  • South Korea – 244,442 arrivals, an increase of 30% over 2015
  • China – 610,139 arrivals, an increase of 24% over 2015
  • Australia – 333,437 arrivals, an increase of 16% over 2015
  • India – 215,664 arrivals, an increase of 13% over 2015
  • France – 545,786 arrivals, an increase of 9% over 2015
  • Brazil – 114,261 arrivals, an increase of 2% over 2015

For more, go to https://www.destinationcanada.com/en .