Canada’s travel industry is expected to make $183 billion in 2025 and provide jobs for 1.8 million people. Travel Pulse
The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) says Canada is all set to have a record-breaking year in tourism. According to new forecasts, travel and tourism will add $183 billion to the Canadian economy in 2025. The booming sector is also expected to support 1.8 million jobs across the country.
Domestic Travel Leads the Way
Travel within Canada is growing fast. WTTC says domestic visitors are expected to spend nearly $104 billion in 2025. That’s a big jump from the previous year’s growth of just 8.3 percent. People are exploring more within the country, helping the local tourism industry thrive.
International Travel Still Shaky
Travel between Canada and the U.S. remains uncertain. WTTC notes a big drop in Canadians heading south. In 2024, more than half of Canadians who travelled abroad went to the U.S. But that number has already started to fall.
Fewer Americans are visiting Canada too. This dip is hurting inbound tourism. The WTTC believes this trend is partly because many global tourists used to plan trips to both the U.S. and Canada together. But now, due to the current political climate in the U.S., some international travellers are skipping North America entirely.
Experts Urge Smart Planning
Julia Simpson, President and CEO of WTTC, says the country’s tourism sector is strong and continues to grow. She says, “Canada’s Travel & Tourism sector continues to be a bright spot in the global economy. With record economic contribution, job creation, and a strong domestic base, the country is proving just how resilient and adaptable its sector can be.”
However, she warns that Canada must act wisely to keep the momentum going. “Travel patterns are shifting, and inbound growth from key markets remains delicate. This is the time to invest in smart marketing, frictionless access, and visitor experience to protect that momentum,” she added.
Future Looks Bright
WTTC is hopeful about what lies ahead. By 2035, they predict the tourism industry in Canada will grow even bigger. It could bring in $233.5 billion for the economy and support more than 2.1 million jobs. That would make up 6.3 percent of the country’s total GDP.
With smart planning, better visitor experiences, and strong marketing, Canada can continue to be a top travel spot in the coming years.
