Canadian Association of Tour Operators Says Tariffs Put Thousands of Jobs at Risk

The Canadian Association of Tour Operators (CATO) has issued a strong condemnation of the tariffs imposed today by U.S. President Donald Trump. 

“Thousands of jobs are at risk, and without swift and decisive action, the consequences will only worsen,” CATO said. “We cannot afford to stay silent.”

In a letter sent to stakeholders this morning, CATO called on all tourism industry professionals, businesses, and associations — on both sides of the U.S.-Canada border – to speak out.

“We cannot afford to stay silent,” CATO said. 

“For hundreds of years, the U.S. and Canada have shared a deeply rooted economic and cultural partnership, built on trade, mutual respect, and shared values. The tourism industry alone supports millions of jobs and generates billions of dollars in revenue for both nations.”

The association, which includes members like Transat, TravelBrands, Collette, Sunwing, WestJet Vacations, Globus and others, says damage was already done by Trump’s threats of a trade war, even before the tariffs kicked in today.

“The ripple effect of these trade barriers is already disrupting the flow of tourists, leading to fewer cross-border visits, lost revenue, and a decline in the economic vitality of tourism-related sectors. It’s time for us to make our voices heard, and louder,” said the CATO letter.

CATO said everyone in the tourism sector needs to “join together and stand up against these damaging tariffs.”

The tour operator association offers the following advice for travel industry members who want to make their views known:

“Raise Awareness: Share the facts about the impact of these tariffs on your community and the tourism sector. Educate your customers, colleagues, and partners about how these trade barriers harm jobs and businesses.

Speak Out: Use your platforms – from social media to industry forums – to voice your opposition to these tariffs. Whether you are a business owner, a worker, or a consumer, your voice matters.

Join Forces: Collaborate with industry associations, chambers of commerce, and advocacy groups that are working to reverse the tariffs. Together, we are stronger and can amplify our collective message.

Engage Policymakers: Contact local and national representatives to express your concerns. Urge them to protect the tourism industry by pushing for the removal of tariffs and the restoration of fair, free trade between the U.S. and Canada.

Support Tourism-Friendly Policies: Advocate for policies that encourage travel and tourism between the U.S. and Canada. Remind lawmakers that tourism is not a luxury – it is a critical economic engine that creates jobs and drives prosperity for millions of people.”

CATO’s letter concludes: “The damage is real, but it’s not too late to turn the tide. Together, we can make a difference. Stand up, speak out, and help protect the future of the tourism industry. Make your voice heard – before it’s too late! Let’s preserve the bonds of friendship and ensure that the tourism industry continues to thrive on both sides of the border.”