International Tourism in the U.S. Plummets Due to Trump’s Return and Immigration Policies

The United States is witnessing a troubling downturn in international tourism, causing concern among local authorities and industry professionals. Close to the northern border, cities like Buffalo, along with major tourist destinations such as Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and Washington, D.C., have experienced a noticeable drop in foreign visitors this summer.

According to the Associated Press (AP), this trend is particularly evident in Buffalo, New York, where efforts including a "Buffalo Loves Canada" sign and promotional campaigns with giveaways have failed to attract the usual influx of Canadian tourists who typically fill hotels and shops during the summer months.

Impact of Trump’s Policies

Experts are pointing fingers at the return of Donald Trump to the White House and the policies enacted during his second term. The imposition of tariffs, hostile rhetoric towards Canada and Greenland, reinstatement of travel bans, stricter visa policies, and widespread ICE raids have created a climate of distrust abroad. "It's disheartening to see visitor numbers drop due to mere discourse," lamented Patrick Kaler, director of Visit Buffalo Niagara.

The World Travel and Tourism Council has projected that the U.S. will be the only country out of 184 analyzed to see a decline in foreign tourist spending by 2025, according to AP. "The world's largest tourism economy is heading in the wrong direction," warned Julia Simpson, president of the council.

Decreasing Visitor Numbers

Tourism Economics predicts an 8.2% decrease in international visitors this year, significantly below pre-COVID-19 levels. Official figures indicate that the first seven months of 2025 saw three million fewer tourists, with notable declines from Europe, Asia, and Africa.

This decline has been felt across various sectors. The prestigious Lindy Hop dance championship, which annually attracts competitors from over 20 countries, was postponed after many foreign participants opted out of traveling to New York. In the capital, Destination DC officials anticipate a 5.1% reduction in visits and have launched a campaign to counteract the federal government's "negative rhetoric."

Ripple Effects Across Industries

The repercussions extend beyond visitor numbers in iconic cities like Las Vegas or Washington. The crisis has also impacted the airline sector, with major European carriers cutting flights to the U.S. due to dwindling international demand and the atmosphere of distrust fostered by immigration policies. Hospitality giants, including hotel chains and U.S. airlines, have acknowledged significant financial losses, reflecting a contraction that affects not only tourist arrivals but also domestic travel and hospitality consumption.

The reinstatement of restrictive policies and the increase in travel bans have led to numerous flight cancellations to the U.S., driven by decisions from foreign airlines and a lack of passengers willing to face new hurdles at customs and embassies. The economic impact is undeniable: over 230,000 jobs in the sector are at risk, affecting airport and hotel workers, as well as small businesses reliant on tourism.

Once a robust pillar of the American economy, the tourism sector is now facing a crisis that threatens to persist unless the current restrictive policies are reversed.