Trump’s Rhetoric and Policies Reduce Tourism in the U.S., Especially from Canadians

• International Tourism in Decline in the US
• Canadians Avoid Traveling to the US
• Hotels Report Lower Occupancy

According to EFE, the policies of President Donald Trump, including anti-immigration measures and trade tariffs, have begun to take a toll on the tourism sector.

According to Tourism Economics, international travel to the United States has fallen by 3.9% so far this year.

In July, the drop was 3.1% compared to the same month last year, excluding Canada and Mexico.

Analysts point out that harsh rhetoric and geopolitical tensions fuel a climate of uncertainty that discourages travel.

Geopolitical Factors Affecting the Image

Trump’s rhetoric and policies reduce tourism to the U.S., especially from Canadians https://t.co/up4T0LGYF4

— el Nuevo Herald (@elnuevoherald) September 7, 2025

Aran Ryan, Director of Industry Studies at Tourism Economics, explained that the decline reflects a combination of policies and presidential statements.

Adverse trade negotiations and stricter border security measures have raised concerns among potential visitors.

In the case of Canada, Trump’s statements questioning national sovereignty provoked rejection and distrust.

The restrictions imposed in June on 19 countries reinforced the perception that the United States is a less predictable and less welcoming destination.

Trump, US Tourism, and the Hotel Industry

The hotel sector is also showing signs of strain due to the reduced number of international visitors.

According to Costar, the national hotel occupancy rate was 63.1% through July, compared to 63.5% last year.

During the summer, percentages fell each month: in June 68.5% compared to 69.7%, in July 66.4% compared to 67.2%, and in August one point lower than the previous year.

The World Travel and Tourism Council warned that the decline in international tourism will mean losses of up to $12.5 billion in 2024.

Global Warnings and International Criticism

Julia Simpson, president of the WTTC, criticized that while other countries offer hospitality, the United States projects an image of closed doors.

The climate of uncertainty has reduced the country’s competitiveness compared to destinations with more open policies.

Experts note that the president’s rhetoric and the volatile application of tariffs generate distrust among travelers and investors.

This scenario could cement a negative trend if no measures are taken to restore the image of the United States as a safe and attractive destination.

Canadian Tourism in Sharp Decline

The Canadian market, historically one of the strongest, is the one most affected by Trump’s policies.

Visits from Canadians fell by 20.3% so far this year and by 25.2% in July alone, according to Tourism Economics.

In June, flights from Canada to the United States dropped 28.7% compared to the previous year.

Flight bookings for the coming months are between 35.6% and 43% lower than in the same period of 2023, reflecting growing distrust toward the neighboring country.