"Moose Jaw envisions drawing Canadians and Americans through tariffs instead of annexation"
Moose Jaw's Warm Welcome to the Neighbors
In the heart of Saskatchewan, Moose Jaw welcomes its southern neighbors with open arms, taking advantage of current trade tensions to boost its tourism industry. This quaint city of about 35,000 residents, nestled west of Regina, has an alluring charm and some intriguing history, making it a perfect escape from the tariff-heated atmosphere.
Mayor James Murdock, in a cheeky twist, launched a campaign in March, pushing Moose Jaw as a hotspot for Americans looking to relax amidst the tariffs drama. As he humbly stated in a promotional video, "Forget about annexation, come for relaxation." Although the mayor was unavailable for an interview, he expressed concerns over tariffs and noted the U.S. dollar's dominating position against the Canadian dollar, offering a tempting prospect for Americans to stretch their dollars further in the city.
Local businesses are eager to benefit from these economic advantages and encourage Canadians to enjoy some domestic travel instead of heading south. Among them is Bobby Hill, the general manager of Moose Jaw's famous Tunnels, where 1920s bootleggers, gamblers, and gangsters once ran wild. The tunnels attract a diverse crowd, with about 20% being American, and summer is their busiest season, welcoming around 70,000 visitors annually.
Hill fears the tariffs might not significantly impact their business but expressed hope that Canadians would appreciate the city more and embrace domestic travel. At the adjacent Past Times Old Time Photography and Gifts store, Mike Thul encourages visitors to dress up in 1920s attire and step into the era of notorious figures like Al Capone. Although he joked about promoting villains, Thul acknowledged the strategy was working wonders for his business.
Moose Jaw recently hosted the BKT World Men’s Curling Championship, which attracted spectators worldwide. Despite the ongoing trade dispute, businesses remain optimistic, hoping that the campaign will bring in both American and Canadian visitors. Though some concern looms over potential price hikes due to tariffs, the overall spirit in the city is one of positivity and camaraderie.
Business owners like Yvette Moore from Yvette Moore Gallery and Crystal Milburn from Prairie Bee Meadery see tariffs as a temporary hurdle and express their eagerness to welcome American tourists. Milburn emphasized that while the Trump administration may be causing problems, the typical American on the street is still welcome. In her words, "We absolutely want you to visit, we want you to get to know Canada as Canada."
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- Amidst the trade tensions, Moose Jaw leverages its charm to attract Americans, offering an escape from tariff-heated situations.
- The Canadian city of Moose Jaw, nestled in Saskatchewan, launches a campaign to lure American visitors, enticing them with relaxation amidst the tariff crisis.
- In response to rising tariffs, Moose Jaw's businesses advocate for domestic travel, encouraging Canadians to explore the city and its historical attractions.
- As the U.S.-Canada trade dispute escalates, Moose Jaw sees potential in boosting tourism and welcoming American visitors, hoping to create a positive and camaraderie-filled environment.
