Chairperson of Project Enforcement
Raul B. Bustamante
As Canada–U.S. relations continue to evolve in 2026 amid shifting political priorities, heightened border sensitivities, and an increasingly complex security environment, the Canada Arizona Business Council is advancing Project Enforcement—a strategic, real-time initiative designed to bring clarity, transparency, and confidence to border-related issues affecting Canadian travelers, snowbirds, and business stakeholders in Arizona.
Over the past year, a combination of policy adjustments, increased enforcement visibility, election-driven rhetoric, and amplified social media narratives has contributed to a growing sense of uncertainty among Canadians. Concerns around entry procedures, secondary inspections, detainments, and legal rights while in the United States have become more pronounced. In many cases, perception is moving faster than reality—yet those perceptions are already influencing behavior, including travel decisions, real estate activity, and cross-border investment flows.
Arizona’s proximity to the U.S.–Mexico border continues to shape its enforcement posture, making it uniquely important to distinguish localized realities from broader national narratives. While enforcement visibility has increased, it is critical to clarify what has materially changed, what remains consistent, and how Canadians can operate safely and confidently within this framework.
Canadians need to feel safe and welcome in Arizona—a state that continues to demonstrate strong public safety, stability, and a commitment to visitors and residents alike.
Communities across Arizona are safe and well-supported by coordinated law enforcement.
Arizona’s enforcement agencies—both local and federal—work in close coordination to support public safety across the state.
Project Enforcement is designed to close the growing gap between perception and reality—rapidly and decisively. Its core mission is to replace fragmented and often inaccurate information with verified facts, direct engagement with enforcement agencies, and clear, actionable guidance for Canadians navigating the current environment. In 2026, this effort is no longer optional; it is essential to preserving confidence in one of North America’s most important subnational economic relationships.
The initiative focuses on four priority areas:
The economic implications in 2026 are already measurable. Current projections indicate a 15–20% decline in Canadian visitation for the 2025–2026 winter season, driven largely by perception, political signaling, and uncertainty rather than verified risk. This decline has direct consequences across Arizona’s economy—from hospitality and tourism to real estate and small business ecosystems that rely heavily on Canadian participation.
Without immediate intervention, these perception-driven shifts risk becoming structural. That is why Project Enforcement is built not as a static report, but as a dynamic platform—delivering continuous updates, briefings, and direct engagement opportunities. Through quarterly forums, targeted stakeholder sessions, coordinated discussions with enforcement agencies, and rapid distribution of educational materials, CABC is ensuring that accurate information moves at the same speed as misinformation.
The urgency is clear: narratives are forming in real time, and decisions are being made based on incomplete or inaccurate information. In 2026, speed, credibility, and direct access to facts are the defining factors in maintaining cross-border confidence. CABC is positioned to operate at that pace—serving as a trusted bridge between Canadian stakeholders and Arizona-based institutions.
At stake is a relationship of significant economic and strategic importance. More than 500 Canadian-owned or controlled companies operate in Arizona, alongside tens of thousands of seasonal residents who contribute meaningfully to the state’s economy each year. Project Enforcement reinforces that this relationship is grounded in stability, transparency, and long-term opportunity—not uncertainty.
This initiative does not dismiss legitimate concerns. Instead, it addresses them directly—ensuring Canadians have the tools, information, and access needed to make informed decisions based on facts rather than reaction to political narratives or isolated incidents.
Looking ahead, Project Enforcement will continue as a long-term, adaptive platform in 2026 and beyond—monitoring policy developments, responding to emerging enforcement trends, and maintaining open channels of communication between Canada and Arizona. As cross-border dynamics continue to shift, CABC remains committed to proactive engagement, informed advocacy, and strengthening trust at every level.
We invite members, partners, and stakeholders to actively participate—sharing insights, asking critical questions, and contributing to a more accurate and constructive dialogue. Through collaboration and clarity, we will ensure that Arizona remains not a point of concern, but a destination defined by opportunity, security, and enduring partnership with Canada.
