2025 Advocacy Wins
Policy Leadership. Member Impact. Sector Growth.
In 2025, TIAC delivered measurable advocacy results that strengthened Canada’s tourism sector. Through direct engagement with federal officials, we secured new funding, influenced policy decisions, and helped remove barriers affecting tourism operators across the country.
These outcomes reflect TIAC’s role as the national voice of tourism—and show the value of a unified sector working together for results.
Policy Influence & Government Advocacy
TIAC successfully influenced key decisions at the federal level that improved operations, unlocked investment, and supported recovery across the visitor economy.
Federal Funding and Infrastructure Support
TIAC secured renewed investment in the Airport Capital Assistance Program (ACAP) through the 2025 Federal Budget and Fall Economic Statement, ensuring critical infrastructure upgrades for regional and local airports.
We also championed targeted employment support aimed at bolstering Canada’s youth workforce—building the foundation for a stronger, more resilient tourism labour market.
Business Events Sector Investment
TIAC influenced the 2024 Fall Economic Statement to include an additional $10 million for the International Convention Attraction Fund (ICAF). This funding empowers Canadian destinations to attract high-value global conventions, creating significant economic returns for Canadian cities and their tourism networks.
Faster Labour and Visitor Visa Processing
In partnership with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), TIAC helped reduce processing times for visitor visas and study permits—directly benefiting tourism businesses reliant on international travellers and the education sector.
Advancing International Labour Solutions
TIAC engaged the Commissioner for Employers to begin developing new, more flexible labour pathways for the tourism sector. These efforts address persistent workforce shortages by exploring long-term structural solutions in collaboration with federal partners.
Defending the Sector from Disruptive Policy
TIAC helped the sector navigate two major economic threats:
- Digital Services Tax (DST): We supported the successful repeal of this tax through targeted outreach, protecting tourism businesses that depend on online booking platforms.
- Canada–U.S. Trade Tariffs: TIAC helped secure the removal of reciprocal tariffs and delivered webinars and tools to help members mitigate risk during trade uncertainty.
Safeguarding Tourism During the G7 Summit
In advance of the 2025 G7 Summit, TIAC worked with federal officials and the RCMP to successfully advocate for the relocation of a designated protest zone in Banff, Alberta. This helped protect local businesses and maintain safe access during peak visitor season.
Clarifying Cross-Border Rules
TIAC worked closely with CBSA and stakeholders in Northern Ontario to clarify tariff rules and border processes for U.S. travellers. This helped ensure seamless cross-border movement and reduced confusion for both visitors and operators.
Protecting Essential Air Travel
During the Air Canada flight attendant job action, TIAC ensured federal officials understood the need to maintain critical air service during peak travel season. Our advocacy supported the continuity of operations and minimized disruptions for passengers and tourism businesses alike.
Recognition in the Speech from the Throne
TIAC’s work led to formal mention of the tourism sector in the 2025 Speech from the Throne, highlighting Canada's global tourism experience and national reputation. This milestone reinforces tourism’s status as a priority in Canada’s economic and cultural identity.
Reopening Access to the Chinese Travel Market
TIAC played a key role in Canada’s reinstatement on China’s Approved Destination Status (ADS) list—advocating consistently alongside the Government of Canada and the Chinese Embassy. This milestone reopens access to the high-potential Chinese group travel market and represents a major step forward for tour operators, attractions, and destinations across the country working to rebuild international visitation.
High-Impact Sector Engagement & Visibility
Beyond direct advocacy, TIAC continued to lead national conversations and elevate the profile of tourism as a vital economic driver.
Mobilizing the Sector Nationally
TIAC successfully activated the sector through several key initiatives:
- Federal Election Toolkit – Gave members tools to raise local tourism issues and communicate directly with candidates during the 2025 election.
- National Tourism Week – Coordinated a nationwide campaign to amplify tourism’s contributions to local economies.
- Regional Roundtable Series – Hosted a coast-to-coast series of industry discussions, resulting in published reports that shaped actionable policy recommendations.
Launch of TourismCan.ca
TIAC launched TourismCan.ca, a new platform that provides riding-level tourism data on employment and businesses. This tool gives MPs and local leaders clear insights into the economic impact of tourism in their communities—strengthening the case for continued investment and support.
Hosting High-Value Government Engagements
TIAC brought the sector and federal leaders together through impactful events:
- "One Hill of a Party" Reception – Held on Parliament Hill in September, this high-profile gathering united industry voices with elected officials to celebrate tourism’s national importance.
- Tourism Advocacy Summit (Hill Day) – Held in December, this inaugural event featured remarks from Minister Valdez, alongside panel discussions with federal leaders and departmental experts. The summit created a direct forum for sharing industry recommendations.
- TIAC’s Tourism Congress – Delivered a high-profile national forum for industry leaders, policymakers, and partners to connect, share insights, and shape the future of Canadian tourism.
Looking Ahead
These wins demonstrate the power of coordinated advocacy and sector-wide alignment. TIAC remains committed to driving strong policy outcomes, growing Canada’s visitor economy, and supporting the businesses that make it all possible.