Data from the U.S.
International Trade Administration and industry analysts show foreign tourism to the United States has dropped sharply in 2025.International air arrivals fell 10% in March compared to the previous year, while total foreign visitors dropped 12%.
These figures mark the steepest decline since the pandemics second wave in 2021.Analysts attribute this downturn to stricter border controls, increased detentions at airports, and a rise in protectionist rhetoric.
The U.S.
governments recent tariffs and a tougher stance toward traditional allies have damaged the countrys image abroad.However, this shift has led to widespread calls for boycotts and a drop in travel demand.
Goldman Sachs projects the tourism slump and related boycotts could cost the U.S.
economy up to $90 billion in 2025, or 0.3% of GDP.Tourism, which generated $254 billion in revenue in 2024 and accounted for 2.5% of GDP, now faces a reversal of post-pandemic recovery.
The impact is broad.U.S.
Tourism Faces Sharpest Drop Since Pandemic, $90 Billion at Risk.
(Photo Internet reproduction)Western European visitors with overnight stays fell 17% in March, with Germany, Ireland, and Norway seeing drops over 20%.
Canadian air arrivals fell 13.5%, and land arrivals dropped 31.9%.
Las Vegas expects a 5% fall in hotel tax revenue.Major hotel chains and airlines report lower bookings and have cut profit forecasts.
Tourism Economics revised its 2025 forecast from 9% growth to a 9.4% decline.The U.S.
retail sector could lose up to $20 billion in tourist spending.
The strong dollar and higher travel costs have further discouraged visitors.
The U.S.
now faces a delayed tourism recovery, with ripple effects across airlines, hotels, and local economies.