Tourism analysts warn that the U.S. decline in international travel may persist beyond summer, fueled by politics, costs, and policy changes.
Tourism experts have warned that a sharp downturn in international travel to the United States may continue well beyond summer, citing political and economic factors.
Patrick Kaler, CEO of Visit Buffalo Niagara, said Canadian traffic dropped significantly despite campaigns like “Buffalo Loves Canada.” U.S. government data shows overseas arrivals fell by over three million in the first seven months of 2025, with steep declines from Western Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Analysts link the trend to President Donald Trump’s return to office, tariffs, immigration crackdowns, and rhetoric that some say alienates travelers. “The sentiment drag has proven to be severe,” research firm Tourism Economics noted.
The World Travel & Tourism Council projects the U.S. as the only major destination where foreign visitor spending will decline in 2025. “The world’s biggest travel and tourism economy is heading in the wrong direction,” said council president Julia Simpson.