Provincial Government looking for business feedback to build tourism strategy

"Tourism is a vital sector for Ontario's economy. That's why we encouraged the new Ontario government to implement a strategic plan for the tourism sector. We're very pleased Minister Jones has announced that the government will be working with tourism stakeholders to create a new tourism strategy that'll lead to an even stronger tourism industry in Ontario."
— Rocco Rossi, President and CEO, Ontario Chamber of Commerce

Tourism is one of the key economic sectors for the City and County of Peterborough.  The Tourism Industry Association of Canada provides business and jobs by riding.  Within the three ridings that include Peterborough there are 1793 businesses and 17, 493 jobs in the tourism sector.  

Earlier this year, the Ontario Chamber of Commerce using the policy resolutions of the Chamber Network provided the provincial government with a blueprint letter with recommendations on how to drive the tourism sector in Ontario.  

Five key priority areas were identified: 

1. Implement a strategic plan for the tourism sector
2. ​Establish a Tourism Industry Table as part of the Highly Skilled Workforce Strategy
3. Lower taxes that disproportionately impact the tourism sector
4. Leverage the potential of the sharing economy by promoting consistent rules across Ontario
5. Create greater consistency and predictability in provincial tourism marketing funding

Consultations are expected to be held in late fall of this year.  The government is seeking feedback on several areas impacting the tourism industry from the roles of government and industry to workforce and regulatory burden. 

Read the OCC Blueprint Letter

Read the Government Press Release