Canada is once again on China’s approved list for group travel, signalling an improvement in relations after several years of strained ties. CBC News
Canada has officially returned to China’s list of approved destinations for group travel. The announcement, made Monday in Beijing, came just days after Prime Minister Mark Carney met with Chinese President Xi Jinping during the APEC Summit in South Korea. Carney described the meeting as a “turning point” in relations between the two countries.
The reinstatement marks the first major improvement in Canada-China relations in years. The two countries faced tense diplomatic ties since 2018 following the arrest of Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou in Vancouver and the subsequent detention of Canadians Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor in China.
Canada Sees Step Forward in Relations
Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand called the move “an important step” in rebuilding a balanced relationship. “Tourism plays an important role in fostering people-to-people ties,” she said. “Canada remains a safe, welcoming destination for Chinese visitors.”
Anand added that the decision followed weeks of discussions between Canadian and Chinese officials. She said ongoing dialogue helped lay the groundwork for restoring trust and cooperation.
Minister of International Trade Maninder Sidhu also praised the decision, calling it “an important step forward.” He said the renewed travel approval could help boost tourism and strengthen economic ties after years of limited engagement.
China Expresses Willingness to Cooperate
In Beijing, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning confirmed the decision, noting it would help “promote people-to-people exchanges and deepen mutual understanding.” She said China hopes both countries continue working together to make travel easier and safer for visitors.
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Chinese tourists were a major part of the global travel economy. In 2019, they made up nearly 20 percent of all international tourism spending. Canada benefited greatly from that flow, welcoming thousands of Chinese visitors each year.
Tourism Impact Expected
Though Canada continued to see individual travellers from China in recent years, group tours had been suspended since 2023. At the time, China left Canada off its approved list of destinations after tensions rose over allegations of Chinese interference in Canadian politics.
Now, with the approval restored, tourism experts expect a steady rise in visitors. Canada’s airports already reported a 43 percent increase in overnight travellers from China in 2024 compared to the year before.
Anand said it’s too soon to predict exact numbers, but the tourism boost could be significant. Chinese group tours traditionally visit major cities such as Vancouver, Toronto, Montreal, and Ottawa, often supporting hotels, restaurants, and local attractions.
Renewed Dialogue After Years of Silence
The Carney-Xi meeting was the first between Canadian and Chinese leaders since 2017. Carney said both sides agreed to “address irritants” and focus on rebuilding cooperation. Analysts see the resumption of dialogue as a cautious but positive step after several difficult years.
Tensions had escalated over trade disputes, diplomatic detentions, and concerns about foreign interference. Despite the progress, both sides still face challenges, including tariffs and political disagreements.
For now, however, officials from both countries are calling the decision a hopeful sign of improving relations — one built not just on trade or politics, but on travel, tourism, and human connection.
