RBC Insurance is expanding into the U.S. travel insurance market.

The company will initially launch its products, which will be distributed through travel agents across the United States under the brand name of RBC Travel Protection, in 34 states. It plans to expand nationwide by the end of 2003, subject to regulatory approvals.

“With this launch, we will expand the distribution of our trip cancellation and interruption, emergency assistance and other travel related products and services, to provide U.S. travelers with comprehensive insurance coverage for a variety of unexpected situations,” said Stan Seggie, president and CEO of the travel insurance division of RBC Insurance, in a news release.

Seggie said the firm will use the existing RBC Insurance infrastructure in Greenville, South Carolina, to provide clients with global travel insurance solutions.

RBC Travel Protection products will be underwritten by American Bankers Insurance Co. of Florida and American Security Insurance Co.