Naomi Yamamoto, Minister of State for Small Business and Tourism, joined with the Tourism Industry Association of British Columbia (TIABC) in celebrating National Tourism Week, an annual event that highlights the benefits of travel and tourism in Canada from coast to coast.

During the week of June 16-20, 2014, tourism organizations, businesses and other partners such as TIABC organize and engage in a wide variety of local and regional activities and events that showcase the economic impact and social benefits of Canada’s tourism sector.

TIABC, a not-for-profit trade association, works collaboratively with private-sector tourism businesses, industry associations and destination marketing organizations to ensure the best working environment for a competitive tourism industry.

B.C. government representatives are working with the federal government to ensure that Canadian destinations stand out in an increasingly competitive international marketplace. B.C. also is developing partnerships with the Canadian Tourism Commission to launch aligned tourism campaigns in key overseas markets such as China, the UK, Germany, Australia and Japan, as well as the U. S., one of B.C.’s largest markets

The federal government’s visa reforms, such as a recent easing of restrictions from visitors from Mexico and Chile, will assist us in making it easier for leisure and business travellers to reach us.

B.C. is committed to working with federal and provincial governments, international airlines, airports and businesses from across Canada and around the globe to promote more flights and increased non-stop services from priority markets. Air access is essential considering B.C.’s distance from many markets and the vast size of our province. A co-ordinated effort will increase Canada’s competitive edge in attracting tourists and trade and improve the economy.

B.C. is focused on developing and marketing B.C.’s world-class tourism products, such as touring vacations, city experiences, skiing and snowboarding, Aboriginal tourism, conventions and meetings, as well as outdoor adventure and eco-tourism.

B.C. offers world-renowned public assets that support tourism experiences, including premium meeting and sports facilities, heritage sites, spectacular national and provincial parks, recreation sites and a diverse network of trails.

Quotes:

Naomi Yamamoto, Minister of State for Small Business and Tourism -

“It’s important for us to acknowledge and celebrate the successes of tourism businesses in B.C. - not only during Tourism Week but throughout the year. Tourism is a vital part of our communities and our economy - generating $13.5 billion and employing more than 127,000 people. That’s why we’ve included it as a key part of our BC Jobs Plan.”

“Local tourism marketers, and Destination BC do a great job in attracting tourists to our province and we each have a role to play in making visitors feel welcome to ensure they leave with fond memories of their experiences in B.C. and are eager to return.”

Marsha Walden, president and CEO, Destination BC -

“B.C. is a highly rated tourism destination because of our awe-inspiring natural assets, solid infrastructure, unique experiences and world-class customer service. International travel is forecast to double over the next 20 years worldwide and competition is becoming increasingly aggressive. To catch this wave of growth, British Columbia will need to focus on smart marketing and exceptional experiences.”

Ian Robertson, executive director, Tourism Industry Association of BC -

“Tourism plays an important role in contributing to the economy of local communities and cities throughout our province. A healthy and vibrant tourism economy leads to investment across all sectors in our province, which benefits all of us.”

Quick Facts:

• The tourism sector continues to grow in B.C. Between 2002 and 2012, tourism revenue increased by 40.5%.
• Tourism is comprised of more than 18,000 businesses throughout the province, most of which are small businesses with fewer than 20 employees.
• One out of every 15 people employed in the province works in tourism in areas such as accommodations, food and beverage services, transportation, retail, recreation and entertainment and travel services.
• The B.C. government invests significant resources in tourism.
  • In Fiscal 2014-15, Destination BC received $50.974 million in funding from the Province to collaboratively work with tourism stakeholders throughout the province to co-ordinate tourism marketing at the international, provincial, regional and local levels.
  • More than 50 communities took advantage of legislation allowing each of them to collect a 2% Municipal and Regional District Tax on accommodation, raising $26.7 million to market their communities in 2012-13.
  • $10.5 million was given to 14 resort communities, via the Resort Municipalities Initiative, in 2014.

Media Contacts:

Media Relations
Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Responsible for Labour
250 387-2799