Toronto – Arab Canada News

The American tourism sector is experiencing a sharp decline in the number of Canadian visitors, as a result of escalating trade and political tensions between the two countries, threatening economic losses estimated in billions of dollars.

Significant decrease in the number of Canadian travelers

Reports indicate that flight bookings from Canada to the United States dropped by as much as 75% in April compared to the previous year, with this decline continuing at more than 70% until next September. Land traffic also recorded a decline of 32% in March, according to data from Statistics Canada.

Multiple reasons behind the decline

This decline is attributed to several factors, the most prominent of which is U.S. President Donald Trump's imposition of a 25% tariff on Canadian imports, along with controversial statements regarding the possibility of annexing Canada as "the 51st state," which sparked widespread unrest among Canadians. Enhanced security measures at the border, including inspections and detentions, have also contributed to increased concerns among Canadian travelers.

Negative economic impacts on the United States

Canada is the largest source of tourists to the United States, with Canadians spending approximately 20.5 billion U.S. dollars in 2024. Estimates suggest that a decrease of 10% in the number of Canadian visitors could lead to losses of up to 2.1 billion U.S. dollars and the loss of 14,000 jobs in the U.S. tourism sector.

Shifts in Canadian travel destinations

In light of these tensions, many Canadians prefer to spend their vacations within the country or head to alternative destinations such as Mexico and Europe. Some Canadian provinces have launched promotional campaigns to encourage domestic tourism, contributing to an increase in demand for local destinations.

Political and popular reactions

Former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau urged citizens to support local products and services as a way to respond to U.S. policies. Social media has also seen extensive campaigns calling for a boycott of travel to the United States, reflecting rising nationalist sentiments among Canadians.

As tensions between the two countries continue, these trends are expected to keep impacting the U.S. tourism sector, prompting a review of current policies to avoid further economic losses.