Budget Delivers for Tourism: TIAC
The Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) is pleased with this week’s Federal Budget, which delivered some good news, and funds, for the travel industry.
“…Federal Budget demonstrates the government’s confidence in the travel and tourism sector’s ability to deliver economic benefits to Canada’s middle class. These announcements go a long way to improve Canada’s competitiveness as a global tourism destination. Investments in marketing, transportation, attractions and infrastructure will help attract international travellers to Canada and improve the visitor experience,” said TIAC president Charlotte Bell.
TIAC welcomes the proposed $50 million funding increase to Destination Canada’s international tourism marketing over the next two years. Unlike many Canadian industries, travel and tourism is experiencing optimal business conditions, particularly from the US market where the combination of economic recovery, increased passport ownership and currency exchange provide an excellent opportunity to generate interest in travel to Canada.
“While the low Canadian dollar has the potential to generate tourism demand, the key to growth is marketing. The lower value of the Canadian dollar has diminished Canadian buying power in key markets like the US, UK and Europe. [The] budget announcement positions Canada well and provides certainty for our industry over the next two years,” added Bell.
Overall, the budget includes $569 million in measures aimed at strengthening travel and tourism in Canada.
