An Open Letter to the Canadian Motor Coach and Tourism Community
Dear Members of the Canadian Motor Coach and Tourism Community,
The slowdown in travel and the challenging relationships between our two countries require a renewed focus and spirit of collaboration to keep North America Moving. Cross-border travel is essential, and working together is more important than ever.
At its recent meeting, the American Bus Association Board of Directors voted to extend the term of our current Chairman Terry Fischer recognizing the critical importance of U.S.-Canada relations to our members and our industry. A proud Calgarian and longtime ABA leader, Terry brings invaluable cross-border insight to this moment.
We’ve lobbied alongside Ontario Motor Coach Association and Motor Coach Canada to safeguard key provisions of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) that support tourism and trade, while also commissioning a Canadian Tariff Impact Study to ensure lawmakers understand the risks to our sector.
Our joint advocacy helped ensure that Canada and Mexico were excluded from recent retaliatory tariff lists, a direct result of our engagement with policymakers and allied associations.
We’re also taking a stand to protect motorcoach operators in New York City, one of the most popular destinations for Canadian and international tours. ABA is actively challenging restrictive and onerous idling regulations that penalize our members and threaten the viability of group travel in the city.
We’re excited for the future – when in 2027 the ABA Marketplace show will be held in Calgary, Canada. ABA Marketplace continues to be the premier event where business gets done—and in 2027, it will be more important than ever to show the power and connectivity of our two great countries.
You can also browse recently published stories and articles meant to drive the message home that we are #bettertogether (h/t Vince Accardi, CAE) and that our industry must not be left behind in the policy debate:
- Strengthening Ties Through Travel: The Importance of U.S.-Canada Tourism
- Crain’s Detroit Business Op-Ed: Don’t Forget Tourism in the Trade War Debate
- ABA, OMCA, MCC Partner with Travel Unity for Workforce Development Pilot
We will continue to work with our great partners across the border to lead with purpose and protect your ability to operate. We are dedicated to continuing the work and we thank you for your continued engagement and trust.
Together, we’ll #KeepNorthAmericaMoving.
Sincerely,
The American Bus Association Team
