In Brief: Rendez-vous Canada 2026, the country’s largest international tourism trade show, is expected to generate over $100 million in sales and bring together a record number of international buyers and Canadian tourism sellers in Toronto, highlighting growing global interest in Canadian tourism and significant economic benefits for the sector.
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Image Credit Rendez-vous Canada
Overview of Rendez-vous Canada 2026
Rendez-vous Canada (RVC) will take place in Toronto from May 26 to 29, 2026. The event is positioned as a key driver for tourism revenue and international trade, with projections indicating that travel and tourism revenue in Canada will rise by 6 percent to reach $140.9 billion in 2026. The Canadian Tourism Outlook Report, produced by Destination Canada and Tourism Economics, provides these estimates.
Tourism remains one of Canada’s top service exports. The sector is projected to contribute up to $30 billion toward Canada’s goal of increasing non-US exports by $300 billion by 2035. The trade show facilitates direct connections between Canadian sellers—such as attractions, hotels, and destination marketing organizations—and international buyers, including travel agents and tour operators. More than 60,000 business-to-business appointments are scheduled, linking Canadian tourism experiences to global markets.
International Participation and Market Interest
All of Canada’s target international markets are expected to attend RVC 2026. Interest has increased from countries such as Brazil, France, and China, following the reinstatement of Canada’s Approved Destination Status (ADS) in November 2025. Registration from American buyers is also strong, and overall buyer registration is at an all-time high.
Key figures for Rendez-vous Canada 2026 include: – Over 1,400 registered attendees – More than 500 buyers from 24 international markets, an increase of over 100 buyers compared to 2025 – More than 900 sellers representing over 500 Canadian tourism organizations, including Indigenous entrepreneurs – Over 60,000 pre-scheduled business-to-business appointments
Economic Impact of the Event
Hosting RVC 2026 in Toronto is projected to have a direct economic impact of approximately $6.7 million. An additional $5.7 million is expected from indirect and induced impacts, which include business-to-business activity resulting from the direct impact. The event has secured more than 4,000 hotel room nights in Toronto.
For comparison, the 2025 event in Winnipeg generated an estimated $4.6 million in economic impact, with $89.6 million in business agreements signed over three days.
Focus on Toronto and Ontario Tourism
RVC 2026 will provide an opportunity to showcase Toronto’s culinary scene, cultural neighborhoods, and year-round attractions to over 500 international buyers and tour operators. The timing of the event also coincides with preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2026™, offering buyers insight into how Toronto plans to accommodate global visitors.
In 2025, Toronto welcomed 28.2 million visitors, generating $9.1 billion in visitor spending. International arrivals increased by 8 percent to 1.4 million, with notable growth from the U.K. and Germany. Hosting international buyers at RVC is expected to strengthen demand in established markets and expand opportunities in Asia.
Destination Toronto has increased its visibility and marketing activities in the U.K., Germany, Mexico, and the U.S. to support ongoing growth and diversification.
Ontario’s Participation and Familiarization Tours
More than 85 Ontario tourism businesses and organizations will participate in the marketplace, meeting with international buyers to build relationships and encourage future visitation across the province. RVC 2026 aims to strengthen international partnerships and highlight Ontario’s diverse tourism offerings, including outdoor adventure, Indigenous tourism, culinary experiences, and major events.
In addition to the main event, about 215 buyers and travel trade media will join 17 pre- and post-familiarization tours throughout Ontario. These tours will introduce participants to various destinations and experiences, providing firsthand exposure to Ontario’s communities, attractions, and tourism products.
