On May 30, the Calgary Chamber hosted the Hon. Joseph Schow, Minister of Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration and the Hon. Andrew Boitchenko, Minister of Tourism and Sport, for a fireside chat with Calgary Chamber President & CEO, Deborah Yedlin. With tourism as one of the fastest growing industries globally, the conversation focused on the future of Alberta’s visitor economy and how the sector plays a critical role in expanding connectivity and diversifying Alberta’s economy.
Minister Schow opened by emphasizing the importance of tourism for Alberta’s economy, including the employment opportunities it generates. He noted that Minister Boitchenko, newly appointed to the tourism portfolio, would continue to build upon his previous efforts in the role. Both Ministers underscored the close alignment between their ministries, highlighting how economic development and tourism go hand-in-hand. They expressed a shared commitment to attracting more visitors to Alberta and creating new jobs, positioning tourism as a driver for economic growth.
The Ministers addressed the decline in visitors from the U.S. as an opportunity to target new international markets, including Europe and Mexico. They outlined plans to boost advertising, promote new air route connections, and advocate to the federal government for the removal of the airline fee – measures aimed at reducing barriers and strengthening Alberta’s tourism economy.
Minister Boitchenko affirmed his commitment to advancing Indigenous tourism, stressing the importance of working with municipalities, community stakeholders and Indigenous peoples to expand tourism while ensuring cultural authenticity and minimizing barriers.
Looking ahead, the Ministers shared their vision for expanding Alberta’s tourism infrastructure. They highlighted the need to invest in improved connectivity – particularly through rail and aviation. Minister Boitchenko noted that his passion for sport tourism would help guide long-term infrastructure decisions that benefit communities across Alberta.
The discussion also touched on the intersection of immigration and tourism. Minister Schow highlighted the need for skilled labour in the hospitality sector and confirmed he would advocate to the federal government for targeted, economically driven immigration policies to fill labour shortages.
Both Ministers concluded with a clear message: with the right strategy, infrastructure and immigration policy, Alberta can become a leading tourism hub. Minister Boitchenko reiterated the provincial government’s ambitious goal to double the number of visitors to Alberta, emphasizing that meaningful partnerships with Indigenous communities, local stakeholders, and all levels of government will be key to achieving it.
We extend a special thank you to our presenting sponsor, the Calgary Hotel Association, our thanking sponsor, Tourism Calgary, and our supporting sponsor, the Calgary Telus Convention Centre, for making this event possible.
