U.S. Tourism Plummets 11.6% as Government Policies Deter International Visitors

The number of international tourists visiting the United States has experienced a substantial decline, prompting warnings from the hotel and aviation industries. The latest data from the U.S. Department of Commerce's International Trade Administration reveals that the number of overseas tourists to the U.S. in March decreased by 11.6% compared to the same period last year. This decline was observed across major regions, including Western Europe, Asia, and South America, which collectively account for 80% of international tourists to the U.S.

The drop in tourist numbers is attributed to recent policies and statements by the U.S. government, which have included imposing tariffs on major trading partners and adopting a more aggressive stance in foreign diplomacy. These actions have led to a sharp decrease in the willingness of international tourists to visit the U.S. The impact of this decline is particularly felt in the tourism sector, which contributes significantly to the U.S. economy.

According to the U.S. Travel Association, international tourists are crucial to the U.S. economy, contributing approximately $155 billion in tourism spending annually. The decline in international tourists has directly led to a reduction in demand for hotel accommodations, particularly in tourist hotspots like New York and Los Angeles. These cities heavily rely on international visitors, and the competition among hotels to attract guests has intensified, leading to reduced room rates and squeezed profit margins.

The aviation industry has also been affected, with airlines warning of weakened demand for transatlantic travel. The U.S. government's tariff policies have increased operating costs for airlines, leading to higher ticket prices and a subsequent decrease in global air travel demand. This poses a significant threat to the recovery and development of the global tourism industry.

The decline in international tourists is particularly pronounced among visitors from Canada. The U.S. government's tariffs and aggressive rhetoric have dampened Canadian enthusiasm for travel to the U.S. In March, the number of Canadians entering the U.S. via air and land decreased by 13.5% and 31.9%, respectively. Some airlines have already reduced flights to popular destinations like Florida and Las Vegas. The U.S. Travel Association has warned that a 10% decrease in Canadian visitors could result in a $2.1 billion loss, while a 20% decrease could cause over $4 billion in economic damage.

Additionally, the U.S. government's tightened visa policies have made it more difficult for international tourists to visit. Lengthened approval processes and increased rejection rates have led some tourists to postpone or cancel their plans to visit the U.S. The aviation industry, a critical support for the global economy and tourism sector, has been negatively impacted by these policies. The International Air Transport Association has emphasized that the U.S. government's tariff policies have increased operating costs for airlines, leading to higher ticket prices and a subsequent decrease in global air travel demand. This poses a significant threat to the recovery and development of the global tourism industry.

Delta Air Lines CEO Glen Hauenstein noted that the company has seen a significant drop in bookings from Canada. Due to global trade uncertainties, the company withdrew its 2025 profit forecast last week. The decline in international tourists highlights the potential economic impact of the U.S. government's aggressive border policies. The overall trend indicates a growing reluctance among people to travel to the U.S., posing a significant threat to the tourism industry, which is a crucial component of the U.S. economy.