The Ontario government’s 2025 Fall Economic Statement confirms that tourism is a proven economic driver, a catalyst for regional development, and a partner in building stronger, more resilient communities across the province.
We welcome the government’s ongoing investment in Ontario’s tourism economy, including dedicated support for major destination projects such as The Corleck in Toronto, Wasaga Beach’s tourism planning and capital initiatives, and the ongoing commitment to unlocking the full potential of the Niagara Region. These investments recognize tourism as an amazing experience provider as well as an essential pillar of Ontario’s growth strategy; creating jobs, attracting private investment, and strengthening local economies.
The Statement’s focus on transportation infrastructure, congestion reduction, and regulatory modernization also aligns with priorities championed in Forward Motion: Ontario’s Strategic Tourism Playbook 2025–2030. Improved mobility, streamlined regulations, and stronger destination connectivity will help tourism businesses expand, welcome more visitors, and deliver better experiences across every region of Ontario.
According to a recent survey conducted by TIAO, 50 per cent of tourism businesses across the province found new domestic suppliers in a variety of categories to mitigate increasing costs in light of the U.S. trade dispute. Operators also noted that they held off on planned investments due to business uncertainty. Initiatives aimed at helping businesses to source domestically and to return to business investment are welcome.
As the province seeks to enhance business competitiveness and workforce capacity, TIAO stands ready to partner with government to ensure tourism remains front and centre in skills development, investment readiness, market diversification, and community revitalization. In a period of global trade uncertainty, tourism continues to be one of Ontario’s most reliable sources of economic development, service sector exports, and resilience.
Together with our members as well as regional and sectoral partners, TIAO will continue to advocate for policy and investment solutions that recognize and leverage the tourism sector’s central role in Ontario’s prosperity.
Tourism builds Ontario’s economy. Let’s keep moving forward — together.
— Andrew Siegwart
President & CEO, Tourism Industry Association of Ontario