LONDON — The robust growth of Canada’s travel and tourism sector is projected to yield a remarkable economic contribution of nearly $183 billion by 2025, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) in its recently published Economic Impact Research (EIR). This milestone underscores the sector’s integral role in Canada’s overall economy.
Jobs Growth in Travel and Tourism
The same forecast indicates that this vibrant sector will support approximately 1.8 million jobs by 2025. The WTTC describes this figure as a significant achievement, highlighting travel and tourism’s impact on the Canadian labor market and emphasizing the ongoing strength of this critical industry. The anticipated job growth reflects an increasingly resilient workforce that adapts to shifts in global travel dynamics.
Domestic and International Spending Trends
While the positive projections are encouraging, the WTTC offers a cautionary note: as international travel patterns evolve, Canada must proactively maintain its momentum. The agency points to the benefits reaped from a stable and expanding domestic market, which is set to surge. In 2025, domestic visitor spending, or expenditures by Canadians traveling within their own country, is expected to reach nearly $104 billion—an impressive annual growth rate of 8.3%.
International visitor spending is also on the rise, projected to reach $34 billion, which is only 2.9% shy of the spending levels recorded in 2019. This recovery is a positive sign for the sector and indicates growing confidence in Canada’s tourism offerings.
Canada’s Competitive Position
“Canada’s travel and tourism sector continues to be a bright spot in the global economy,” stated WTTC President & CEO, Julia Simpson. She asserted that with record contribution to the economy, robust job creation, and a solid domestic base, Canada is demonstrating the resilience and adaptability of its tourism industry.
Strategies for Sustained Growth
However, vigilance remains crucial. Canada needs to concentrate on smart marketing strategies, ensure frictionless access for travelers, and enhance the overall visitor experience to safeguard its growth trajectory. This proactive approach is essential as inbound travel from key markets, specifically the United States, remains sensitive to fluctuations in global travel behavior.
Data indicates that a significant portion of Canada’s inbound arrivals in 2024—71%—originated from the U.S., with 52% of outbound travel by Canadians also directed to American destinations. This interdependence underscores the importance of nurturing relations with neighboring markets.
For more insights on global travel trends, visit the World Travel & Tourism Council website. Keeping informed about evolving travel patterns can empower stakeholders to leverage opportunities in this dynamic sector.
As Canada’s travel and tourism industry continues to flourish, understanding these trajectories and adapting to changes will be pivotal for stakeholders aiming to capitalize on the anticipated economic benefits.
