The U.S. tourism industry had high hopes for 2025, expecting international travel to rebound to pre-pandemic levels after a strong 2024. However, three months into the year, foreign visitor numbers are falling significantly, with international arrivals down 11.6% in March compared to the same month last year, according to government data. A major factor behind the drop is growing discontent with former President Donald Trump’s rhetoric and policies, which many travelers view as unwelcoming or offensive.

Tourists from several countries, including Canada, Sweden, Spain, and China, are canceling trips. Some cite Trump's behavior toward allies—like berating Ukraine’s president and making dismissive remarks about Canada—as reasons for avoiding the U.S. The travel forecasting firm Tourism Economics, which initially projected a nearly 9% increase in foreign arrivals, now expects a 9.4% decline. In Canada, U.S.-bound leisure bookings dropped 40% in March, and Air Canada has cut spring flights due to weak demand. The backlash even includes canceled family vacations and boycotts by individuals wanting to express disapproval.

Bookings have also dropped significantly from Scandinavia, notably after Trump revived the idea of the U.S. taking over Greenland. Meanwhile, travelers from countries like Japan are turning to more affordable destinations in Asia, largely due to unfavorable currency exchange rates rather than political concerns.

Industry experts call this downturn the “Trump Slump,” estimating it could result in $9 billion in lost international tourism revenue this year. While some travelers remain interested in the U.S., many hold off until the political climate changes or Trump’s influence fades.

Source: AP