B.C. projects $1 billion World Cup spending boost, but skeptics doubt the math
Province releases economic impact forecast; critics question post-tournament visitor projections and rising security costs.
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The B.C. government is continuing its effort to convince a skeptical public that hosting seven World Cup games in Vancouver is worth the cost. On Wednesday, the province released an updated economic impact assessment projecting $1 billion in additional visitor spending over the next five years.
The forecast assumes 196,000 out-of-province overnight visitors during the games themselves, followed by 732,000 to 795,000 additional overnight visitors in the five years after. Jobs Minister Ravi Kahlon said the figures demonstrate the tangible benefits of hosting a major international event.
But critics are unconvinced. B.C. Conservative Finance critic Peter Milobar pointed out the logic gap: the province is projecting nearly as many post-tournament visitors per year as during the actual games. "Hard to believe," he said.
The total taxpayer cost to host is estimated between $685 and $729 million. The province expects to recoup $250 to $260 million through a special hotel tax and $100 million from Ottawa, leaving residents to cover the difference. B.C. is projecting $242 million in security costs — significantly higher than Seattle's estimate of $32 million USD for six games nearby.
Recent surveys show residents and small businesses are souring on the trade-offs. The Canadian Federation of Independent Businesses found 72 per cent of Vancouver small-business owners expect no impact on revenue. An Angus Reid survey showed 72 per cent of Metro Vancouver residents say hosting isn't worth the public cost, given disruption and FIFA's outsized profit share.
Kahlon acknowledged the strain but called it worth it to showcase Vancouver to the world. The conversation continues as the tournament kicks off this weekend.