British Columbia’s tourism industry is expressing concern over China’s decision to exclude Canada from its list of approved countries for tour groups. This move could have negative implications for B.C.’s tourism sector, which is still recovering from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. It is estimated that approximately 750,000 Chinese tourists visited Canada in 2018, spending around $2 billion. Nearly half of these tourists visited British Columbia specifically. However, with Canada not being included on China’s list of approved destinations, it will become more difficult for Chinese tourists to visit and spend their money in Canada. This decision is already affecting the Canadian tourism industry as there are fewer flights available. China has been gradually lifting group travel restrictions and has approved several countries, including the United States and Australia. The exclusion of Canada from this list comes at a time of strained relations between the two countries, with allegations of Chinese interference in Canadian elections. The Chinese embassy emphasized the importance of protecting the safety and rights of Chinese citizens overseas and expressed a desire for them to travel in a safe and friendly environment. B.C. tourism operators are urging the Tourism Industry Association of Canada to advocate for the restoration of Canada’s approved destination status. The Chinese market is crucial for Vancouver’s tourism economy, and the impact of this decision could be significant in both the short and long term.
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