The number of people crossing the Canada-US border has significantly increased in recent years, according to data obtained by CBC News.
The data, obtained through a freedom of information request, shows that the number of people entering Canada from the US has increased by 25% since 2016. This includes both Canadian citizens and foreign nationals.
In 2019, there were over 25 million entries into Canada from the US, compared to just over 20 million in 2016. This marks the highest number of entries in the past five years.
The increase in border crossings can be attributed to a number of factors, including the growing number of Americans visiting Canada for tourism and business, as well as the rise in international students and temporary workers entering the country.
The data also reveals that the majority of border crossings occur at land ports of entry, with the busiest being the Ambassador Bridge in Windsor, Ontario and the Peace Bridge in Fort Erie, Ontario.
While the increase in border crossings may be seen as a positive sign for the Canadian economy, it also raises concerns about the capacity of border services to handle the influx of people. In 2019, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) reported a 12% increase in wait times at land ports of entry, with some travellers experiencing wait times of up to four hours.
The CBSA has acknowledged the need for improvements and has implemented measures such as the use of technology to streamline the border crossing process. However, some experts argue that more resources and staffing are needed to effectively manage the growing number of border crossings.
In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has added another layer of complexity to the border crossing process, with new health and safety protocols in place. This has resulted in longer wait times and stricter entry requirements, further highlighting the need for efficient and effective border services.
As the number of people crossing the Canada-US border continues to rise, it is crucial for the government to address the challenges and ensure that the border remains secure while also facilitating the flow of people and goods.
