The spotlight is on Winnipeg this week as it plays host to Rendez-vous Canada (RVC) 2025, the nation’s largest tourism tradeshow, which is expected to generate tens of millions in global tourism investment. The event, running from May 27 to 30, is drawing over 1,400 industry professionals, including more than 400 international buyers from 22 countries.
This year’s RVC marks a significant return for Winnipeg, which last hosted the event in 2010. Organizers expect over 50,000 pre-scheduled business meetings to take place during the four-day event, as Canadian tourism sellers connect with global buyers to showcase experiences across the country.
The Honourable Rechie Valdez, Minister of Women and Gender Equality and Secretary of State (Small Business and Tourism), emphasized the broader impact of the tradeshow.
“We are working to build the strongest economy in the G7, and we understand the business community will play a vital role in helping us get there. As Canada’s premier travel and tourism trade event, Rendez-vous Canada plays a key role in driving business by bringing together Canadian sellers from coast to coast to coast to make meaningful connections. Tourism is powered by more than 265,000 businesses across the country and drives economic growth in communities big and small, to the benefit of all Canadians. This annual event is a prime opportunity to showcase our beautiful country and the unforgettable experiences we have to offer the world.”
Tourism’s growing role in Canada’s economy is undeniable. In 2024 alone, the industry contributed $130 billion, generating over $350 million per day in revenue. This massive economic force is supported by 265,000 businesses in more than 5,000 communities nationwide.
Hosting RVC is also a major win for Winnipeg itself. The tradeshow is projected to bring in a total economic impact of $4.6 million, with an estimated direct impact of $2.8 million and $1.8 million in indirect and induced impacts. Local hotels are expected to accommodate at least 4,000 room bookings during the event.
Marsha Walden, President and CEO of Destination Canada, highlighted the importance of seizing this global opportunity:
“Canada stands out as a destination on the world stage. With our long-standing reputation as friendly, open, and welcoming, we’re well positioned to win the hearts of even more international travelers this year. Rendez-vous Canada is our moment to secure a larger share of the $2.9 trillion in global travel spending projected for 2025, driving prosperity in communities from coast to coast to coast.”
Nina Kessler, Chair of the Board of Directors for the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC), echoed this sentiment by stating:
“Rendez-vous Canada showcases how strong, vibrant, and globally in demand our tourism industry truly is. When buyers from across the world come here to do business, they’re not just purchasing travel packages – they’re investing in Canada’s story. They’re choosing our landscapes, our cultures, our communities, and most importantly, our people. That kind of trust and enthusiasm speaks to the extraordinary standard of excellence our industry has worked so hard to build. RVC is proof that Canada continues to set the bar and raise it year over year.”
This year’s tradeshow features 500 Canadian tourism businesses, including 30 operators from Manitoba, ten of whom are attending for the first time. The event offers these businesses a chance to secure future bookings and long-term international partnerships.
Cody Chomiak, Vice President of Marketing for Travel Manitoba and co-chair of the RVC 2025 planning committee, spoke about the host province’s role and said:
“Rendez-vous Canada 2025 is an incredible opportunity to bring the world to Manitoba. As proud hosts, we look forward to showcasing the heart of Canada, where nature inspires, culture runs deep and tourism plays a powerful role in driving growth across our province. We’re ready to welcome the world and leave a lasting impression.”
Natalie Thiesen, Vice President of Tourism for Economic Development Winnipeg, noted the significance of this year’s host city by stating:
“We are thrilled to welcome the world to Winnipeg this spring as we co-host Rendez-vous Canada (RVC) alongside Travel Manitoba. As Destination Canada’s signature event, co-produced with the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC), this gathering will showcase Winnipeg on a global stage, giving international travel buyers a close-up look at our vibrant tourism industry. The last time Winnipeg hosted was in 2010, and we can’t wait to show the world all the exciting new attractions and transformations that have reshaped our city since then.”
Beyond the tradeshow floor, nearly 200 buyers and travel trade media representatives are participating in immersive familiarization tours throughout Manitoba and other provinces. From the wild tundra of Churchill to culturally rich Prairie towns, these tours aim to give attendees a deeper understanding of the authentic Canadian experiences on offer.
Rendez-vous Canada, co-produced by Destination Canada and TIAC, has been a cornerstone of the national tourism strategy for nearly five decades. This year’s event is yet another step toward reinforcing Canada’s position as a leading global travel destination, and securing the economic benefits that come with it.
