The Alberta government is providing new supports for hotels and other lodging providers that allow them to keep tourism levy amounts collected between March 1 and December 31, 2020.

This measure will free up between $16 million and $27 million in additional cash flow for the hospitality sector, which employs 30,000 Albertans.

It will also help position the sector for recovery, as our government takes steps to gradually reopen businesses and services and get people back to work.

Travel Alberta is also working on measures to support local tourism organizations across Alberta that will be announced at a later date.

“Alberta’s tourism industry is a key contributor to our economy and it creates jobs and revenue that so many communities across our province depend on. We’re committed to providing industry the support it needs now so that it can recover and grow," says Tanya Fir, Minister of Economic Development, Trade and Tourism.

Amounts collected prior to March 1, 2020 that are being deferred under the previously announced deferral program can continue to be deferred until August 31, 2020.

Accommodation providers are still expected to file returns throughout 2020, as required by legislation, and will be expected to resume regular tourism levy payments in 2021. Additional program details will be provided in the coming weeks.

These new measures are part of the Government of Alberta’s broader plan to help Alberta’s tourism industry recover and eventually grow. The three-phase plan will focus on:

  • responding and providing the sector with immediate relief
  • relaunching and supporting the sector through recovery
  • rebuilding and positioning the sector for growth

The Government of Alberta and Travel Alberta’s work to develop a 10-year tourism strategy is ongoing. The strategy is being repositioned to ensure there is a solid plan in place to rebuild Alberta’s tourism industry, while laying the groundwork for long-term growth.