Culture and Tourism Minister Ricardo Miranda is in Mexico City December 7-9 to promote Alberta as a four-season tourism destination.
The minister will participate in meetings with government and tourism industry officials to build important relationships and explore tourism opportunities, which are vital in helping diversify the economy, create jobs and grow Alberta’s tourism sector.
On Dec. 1, the Canadian government lifted the visa requirement for Mexican citizens travelling to Canada for up to three months, including for tourists, business people and diplomats. This will provide additional tourism, cultural and investment opportunities between Alberta and Mexico.
“Mexico is one of the province’s largest trading partners and now that the federal government’s visa requirements have been lifted, there is tremendous potential to attract more visitors to our province. As the doors open for Mexican citizens to travel to Canada, we are interested in re-establishing our footing in the Mexican market, showcasing Alberta and all it has to offer as a must-experience travel destination.”
In 2015, 190,000 visitors from Mexico spent $316 million in Canada. The Travel Industry Association of Canada expects visits to Canada from Mexico to increase by up to 82,000 visitors a year.
Quick facts
- Mexico has a population of more than 121 million and is a key emerging market and the world’s thirteenth largest economy
- Mexico City, with a population of approximately 20 million, is one of the world’s largest cities
- Alberta’s tourism industry generated approximately $8.3 billion in direct visitor expenditures in 2014
- Tourism supports more than 19,000 tourism-rated businesses in Alberta, sustaining 127,000 jobs
The estimated cost for travel, meals, accommodations and hosting for Minister Miranda and one staff member is $5,100.
Itinerary*
Date |
Event |
| Dec 7 (evening) |
|
| Dec 8 |
|
| Dec 9 |
|
*Note: Itinerary is subject to change