Future in Focus: World Tourism Day | TheFutureEconomy.ca

Future in Focus: World Tourism Day

Tourism is Canada’s hidden powerhouse—fueling jobs, culture, and communities. To thrive in a changing world, we must invest boldly, lead sustainably, and build an industry that connects us at home and competes globally.

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Canada’s tourism sector is one of our greatest strategic assets—sustaining communities, creating jobs, and showcasing our culture and landscapes to the world. But to remain globally competitive in an era of changing consumer expectations and climate pressures, we must rethink how we invest in, regulate, and grow this vital industry.

Our new Future in Focus: World Tourism Day explores the following themes:

  • Tourism as a Pillar of Economic Growth – Generating $130 billion annually and supporting 265,000 businesses, tourism is not a niche—it’s a driver of prosperity in every community, urban and rural alike.
  • The Shift Toward Purposeful Tourism – Travellers today seek more than postcards; they want meaningful, transformative experiences that empower local communities, respect Indigenous knowledge, and create lasting impact.
  • Confronting Overtourism and Building Sustainability – Canadian operators must lead with care, designing itineraries and policies that protect fragile ecosystems, diversify destinations, and promote responsible travel.
  • Modernizing Tourism Infrastructure & Policy – From climate-resilient airports to multimodal transportation strategies, investment in tourism infrastructure is essential to strengthen national connectivity, create jobs, and attract global visitors.
  • Tourism as Nation-Building – Beyond economic value, tourism unites Canadians through cultural connection, supports reconciliation, and strengthens our international reputation for inclusivity and stewardship.


Now is the time to elevate tourism as a cornerstone of Canada’s future prosperity. By aligning investment, policy, and purpose, we can create an industry that not only competes globally but also builds stronger, more resilient communities at home.

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