OCTOBER 2025:
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Hug it out? Canada is ready to welcome Americans again - USA TODAY
Canadian destinations and the national tourism organization are actively signaling that Americans are welcome again after a period of political tension, tariffs, and dampened sentiment. Leaders like Destination Canada’s Gloria Loree emphasize renewed confidence and hospitality, noting that “highly engaged guests” who stay longer and spend more are up year over year. At the same time, spending and visit trends remain uneven: U.S. inbound travel spending was forecast to fall to 173 billion USD with significantly fewer Canadian visits cited as a primary driver, while international visitors spent 126.9 billion USD in the first half of 2025. Canadians still represent one of the most loyal inbound markets to the U.S., with about 20 million visits in 2024 generating 20.5 billion USD, and American travelers contributed 15.4 billion CAD (about 11 billion USD) to Canada’s 2024 tourism economy. A central barrier is perception—American travelers ask whether they will feel welcome in Canada, and Canadian operators observed hesitancy linked to tariffs and trade rhetoric. Operators like Toni Kearney in Newfoundland saw bookings soften during prime windows but rebound later as Americans extended autumn travel; she affirmed that visitors of all backgrounds are welcome and their participation is vital to local economies.
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SEPTEMBER 2025:
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U.S. Lost 3 Million Of Its Most Sustainable Tourists This Summer - Forbes
There has been a significant decline in Canadian travel to the United States during the summer of 2025, with over 3 million fewer trips compared to the previous year. Most of these were short-haul, repeat visits by car—historically a sustainable and predictable source of tourism for border states like New York, Michigan, and Washington. The drop in Canadian visitors led to an estimated $2.83 billion loss in U.S. tourism revenue over just three months, with New York and Michigan alone losing over $560 million and $515 million in direct spending, respectively. The article emphasizes how cross-border tourism is not only an economic engine but also a vital link for cultural exchange and regional prosperity. The fragility of this tradition, exposed by recent declines, highlights the urgent need for cooperation between U.S. and Canadian policymakers, industry leaders, and advocacy groups like the Beyond Borders Tourism Coalition (BBTC).
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The cost of an unwelcoming border - Travel Weekly
Arnie Weissmann’s article explores the far-reaching consequences of the U.S. adopting a more suspicious and restrictive approach to border control since 9/11. The piece details how negative experiences at U.S. borders, amplified by policies such as maximum vetting, increased visa costs, and high-profile detentions, have created a climate of fear and uncertainty for international visitors. This has led to a measurable decline in inbound tourism, with Canadian entry numbers down double digits and air traffic falling 26% year over year. The article connects these trends to broader economic and diplomatic risks. For example, organizations like the Girl Guides of Canada have suspended travel to the U.S. due to concerns about inclusivity and safety, highlighting how restrictive policies can undermine youth exchange and soft diplomacy. The reduction in tourism not only impacts the travel industry but also erodes the U.S.’s global reputation and long-term relationships. In 2006 -- five years after 9/11 -- a group of travel industry leaders, concerned that inbound visitation was being hurt by these off-putting first impressions, formed the Discover America Partnership. A poll they fielded confirmed their suspicions: Potential visitors feared U.S. border officials more than terrorism or crime.
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8-Month Canadian Boycott Of US Travel Going Strong— Car Visits Down 34% In August - Forbes
There has been a dramatic 34% year-over-year drop in Canadian car visits to the U.S. in August 2025, marking the eighth consecutive month of steep declines. Air travel from Canada to the U.S. also fell by 25%. These declines are attributed to President Trump’s tariffs and rhetoric, which have soured international sentiment and led to a projected $29 billion loss in U.S. tourism revenue this year. The top U.S. states affected include Florida, California, Nevada, New York, and Texas, with destinations like Las Vegas seeing major impacts. Tourism officials across the U.S. have launched targeted campaigns to woo back Canadian visitors, but the persistent downturn highlights the fragility of cross-border tourism in the face of geopolitical tensions. Meanwhile, Canadian travelers are choosing destinations like Mexico, the Caribbean, Europe, and South America, and domestic tourism in Canada is booming, with spending projected to reach $104 billion.
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Getting a Visa to Visit the U.S. Could Take Even Longer - The New York Times
The U.S. State Department has enacted a new rule requiring nonimmigrant visa applicants—including tourists, business travelers, students, and temporary workers—to schedule interviews in their home countries, rather than seeking faster appointments abroad. This change, intended to address backlogs exacerbated by the pandemic, is expected to significantly increase wait times, with some consulates already facing delays of over a year. The policy also introduces additional financial burdens, such as non-refundable fees for out-of-country applications and new “visa integrity” fees, alongside recent requirements for some applicants to post bonds of up to $15,000.
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Vermont, Quebec mayors unite against U.S. tariffs, warn of sharp tourism losses (Video) - Global News
Burlington Mayor Emma Mulvaney-Stanak and other Vermont and Quebec mayors at a press conference in Granby, Quebec, united to denounce U.S. tariffs and highlight their negative impact on cross-border tourism and small businesses. The mayors stress the deep economic and cultural ties between their regions and urge Washington to reverse policies that threaten jobs, local economies, and the livelihoods of small business owners. Their call to action reflects the mission of the Beyond Borders Tourism Coalition (BBTC), which advocates for open borders, economic stability, and the preservation of cultural and Indigenous connectivity.
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Minnesota businesses & tourism organizations trying to bring back Canadian tourists - KSTP-TV
Minnesota’s tourism sector is experiencing significant challenges as fewer Canadians visit the state, a trend confirmed by a recent Explore Minnesota survey showing that 62% of tourism businesses expect a drop in Canadian travelers this year. The article attributes this decline to the current U.S. political climate and tariffs, which have created barriers to cross-border travel. Canadian tourists are Minnesota’s largest international market, accounting for over 55% of international visitors and generating approximately $110 million in annual spending. Local businesses, such as Java Moose in Grand Marais, are launching targeted social media campaigns to welcome Canadians back, while organizations like Visit Cook County Minnesota are investing in ad campaigns focused on Canadian travelers. The situation illustrates the urgent need for advocacy and policy solutions to restore cross-border tourism, which is essential for economic vitality and community well-being..
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Canadian tourism saw stronger summer bookings as travellers boycott the U.S. - The Globe and Mail
Canada is experiencing significant increases in domestic tourism this summer, driven by travelers’ reluctance to visit the U.S. amid trade disputes, tariffs, and border anxieties. Companies like Karma Campervans and airlines such as Porter and WestJet saw notable growth in bookings, while Canadians opted for local destinations over traditional U.S. vacations. This trend reflects a broader shift away from cross-border travel, with Statistics Canada recording a 29% year-over-year drop in Canadian return trips from the U.S. The Beyond Borders Tourism Coalition has consistently warned that such disruptions threaten economic stability, employment, and cultural exchange across North America.
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Wildfires, labour disruptions burn tourism operators’ bottom line - The Globe and Mail
Canadian tourism operators are facing significant challenges in 2025, including wildfires that have destroyed accommodations and disrupted travel in Jasper, Alberta, and northern regions, as well as labour issues at Air Canada. These disruptions have led to a sharp reduction in visitors, cancellations, and millions in lost revenue, particularly affecting businesses that rely on cross-border tourism from American clients. Indigenous tourism operators have also been hit hard, with some areas reporting up to a 30% decline in business. The ripple effects include diminished local spending, economic strain on communities, and threats to cultural revitalization efforts. These developments underscore the urgency for coordinated advocacy and cross-border policy solutions.
AUGUST 2025:
Guest Op-Ed: Borders or Barriers? Why Suspending Youth Travel Jeopardizes Cultural Understanding - travelmarket report
Carylann Assante of the Student & Youth Travel Association, addresses the Girl Guides of Canada’s decision to suspend group travel to the U.S. in response to restrictive border policies. This move, though rooted in safety and inclusivity, risks undermining the transformative power of international youth travel—a cornerstone of BBTC’s mission. The piece argues that barriers to travel instill lifelong anxieties and mistrust, jeopardizing future collaboration and economic prosperity between Canada and the U.S. It presents research showing travel’s unique role in fostering empathy, personal growth, and academic development, benefits that no classroom can replicate. The loss of these opportunities not only stifles cultural understanding but also threatens the $13B annual spend by U.S. visitors in Canada and the $18B projected loss in U.S. foreign tourist spending for 2025.
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Despite a Crippled Travel Economy, Trump Slams Canada with Increased Tariffs - Open Jaw
US tariff increases on Canadian goods—now at 35% are severly impacting cross-border tourism and economic activity. BBTC’s mission to foster open borders and support sustainable tourism economies is directly threatened, as the coalition’s own data and statements are cited: cross-border travel is down as much as 70%, and even a 10% drop in Canadian travel to the US could erase $2.1 billion in spending and threaten 140,000 American tourism jobs. The piece underscores how tariffs and reciprocal measures are compounding the challenges for border communities, airlines, and hospitality businesses, with Air Canada’s profits halved and regional economies devastated. BBTC’s advocacy for coordinated, stable policies is more urgent than ever, as the article echoes the coalition’s warning of “historic uncertainty” and the need for immediate action to restore confidence, protect livelihoods, and ensure that tourism can continue to drive economic growth and cultural connection across North America.
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Canadian Travel to the U.S. Shows Another Steep Decline - Skift
There has been a significant and sustained drop in Canadian travel to the United States, with car crossings down 37% and air travel down 25.8% in July 2025 compared to the previous year. This marks the seventh consecutive month of decline, reflecting ongoing challenges in cross-border tourism. The trend is mirrored by a decrease in Americans entering Canada by car, though air travel from the U.S. to Canada has seen a slight increase. These shifts have broad economic implications for both countries, affecting tourism-dependent businesses and local economies. The decline is attributed to factors such as political rhetoric, tariffs, and changing traveler preferences. Notably, Canadians are redirecting their travel to overseas destinations like Japan and Brazil, as well as increasing domestic tourism, with 64% intending to travel within Canada this summer.
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Leading indicator of international arrivals to Canada, July 2025 - Statistics Canada
The Statistics Canada report for July 2025 reveals a 15.6% year-over-year drop in international arrivals to Canada, marking the sixth consecutive month of decline. While non-resident air arrivals increased slightly (up 3.1%), this was not enough to offset steep decreases in other categories, especially Canadian-resident return trips by air from the U.S. (-25.8%) and by automobile (-36.9%). US-resident trips to Canada by automobile also fell by 7.4%. These trends reflect ongoing challenges in cross-border tourism, with economic repercussions for communities and businesses reliant on travel between Canada and the United States. The data signals an urgent need for advocacy and cooperation among policymakers to address barriers, restore traveler confidence, and support the tourism sector’s recovery.
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Air Canada Reaps The Benefit Of The ‘Trump Slump’ In U.S. Travel - Forbes
Forbes details a significant downturn in U.S. inbound tourism for 2025, attributed to stricter immigration policies and a growing sense of unease among international travelers. The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) projects the U.S. as the only country among 184 to see a decline in foreign visitor spending this year, with notable drops from key markets like the U.K. (down 14.3% in March 2025 vs. 2024). In contrast, Canada’s tourism industry is thriving, with record levels of domestic and international travel, and a surge in flights from Europe (up 5% from August 2024 and 14% from pre-pandemic 2019). Air Canada has expanded its transatlantic routes and invested in customer experience, further boosting arrivals—U.K. air arrivals to Canada rose 7% in June 2025 year-over-year.
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JULY 2025:
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Association hopes Canada will step up to help Indigenous tourism operators hurt by U.S. trade dispute - Windspeaker.com
Indigenous tourism operators are facing challenges in Canada due to ongoing U.S. tariff threats and a broader trade dispute, which have led to a dramatic drop in U.S. visitation. The Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) is calling for increased government support, noting that while other industries affected by tariffs have received attention, tourism has not. ITAC’s 2025-26 Operational Plan aims to restore the industry to pre-pandemic levels and sets ambitious goals for 2030, including doubling jobs to 60,000 and increasing GDP contributions to $6 billion. The article emphasizes the economic impact of cross-border tourism and the need for urgent advocacy and cooperation between governments to address market disruptions.
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Our Heritage Knows No Borders - Canadian Travel Press
Indigenous tourism, championed by AIANTA, is a $15.7 billion industry that supports self-determination, cultural preservation, and economic empowerment for Indigenous communities across North America. The article addresses the impact of trade disputes and declining Canadian arrivals, emphasizing that authentic Indigenous tourism experiences transcend political boundaries and foster mutual respect. It calls for travelers and policymakers to support Indigenous-owned initiatives, while AIANTA’s strategic partnerships—including with Canadian and New Zealand organizations—demonstrate the urgency of cross-border cooperation and advocacy.
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‘Terrible setback’: Indigenous tourism industry says it’s suffering as U.S. bookings decline - CBC
There has been a significant drop in American visitors to Canadian Indigenous tourism businesses, attributed to rising geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and Canada. With American tourists historically accounting for up to 35% of revenue for Indigenous operators, the decline has already resulted in substantial financial losses—one operator alone reports a $250,000 shortfall this season, and industry leaders warn that up to $500 million could be lost this summer. The Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada reports that nearly 70% of surveyed operators have seen a decrease in U.S. bookings, putting hundreds or even thousands of jobs at risk. While some businesses have seen growth in domestic or overseas markets, the article makes clear that U.S. visitors spend significantly more per person, and their absence cannot be fully offset by other markets. The federal government is monitoring the situation and has invested in Indigenous tourism, but industry leaders stress that robust cross-border travel is essential for economic stability and cultural exchange.
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Beyond Borders Tourism Coalition says “Historic Uncertainty” Gripping Cross-Border Travel - Travel Market Report, Canada
US-Canada Tourism Organization Stresses Need for Collaboration, Economic Recovery - Travel Pulse
Canada-US Tourism Group Alarmed as “Historic Uncertainty” Sparks Massive Losses - Open Jaw
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JUNE 2025:
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Indigenous tourism takes big hit as Americans stay home (Video) - CBC News: The National
“Indigenous tourism takes big hit as Americans stay home” details the significant economic impact that U.S.-Canada border tensions and tariffs are having on Indigenous tourism operators in Canada. With nearly 70% of surveyed Indigenous-owned tourism businesses reporting a drop in U.S. bookings, and U.S. visitors accounting for 30-35% of overall revenue, the industry faces potential losses of up to $500 million and the risk of hundreds, if not thousands, of jobs. The video features firsthand accounts from operators who have lost long-standing American clients and are struggling to replace this vital market. While some Canadian business has increased, it is not enough to offset the loss of cross-border travel. The story powerfully illustrates why the Beyond Borders Tourism Coalition (BBTC) advocates for policies that facilitate cross-border tourism, foster international cooperation, and raise awareness among policymakers about the real-world consequences of political tensions.
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MAY 2025:
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ITAC’s U.S. Tariffs Survey Report May 2025–Key Findings - ITAC
The Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada’s (ITAC) May 2025 U.S. Tariffs Survey Report reveals a dramatic downturn in U.S. visitation to Canada, with projections indicating a potential 68% drop in U.S. bookings for 2025. This sharp decline is directly linked to recent U.S. tariffs and the ongoing trade dispute, which have created significant barriers for cross-border tourism. The report details immediate concerns for Indigenous tourism businesses, including substantial revenue losses, staffing reductions, and over 2,000 jobs at risk. With 19% of businesses planning to decrease hiring, the economic ripple effects threaten not only Indigenous communities but the broader Canadian tourism sector.
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MARCH 2025:
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Indigenous Tourism will be the Hardest Hit by Trump Tariffs - ITAC
President Trump’s newly imposed tariffs, along with Canada’s retaliatory measures, are set to severely impact the Canadian tourism industry, with Indigenous tourism businesses expected to be the hardest hit. According to the Conference Board of Canada (CBoC), inflation will rise significantly, increasing operational costs for tourism operators. Two scenarios modeled by CBoC show that even a short-lived tariff regime could result in a $740 million reduction in tourism-related GDP and 13,100 job losses by Q4 2029, while a prolonged two-year tariff scenario could lead to an $8.2 billion GDP reduction and 176,800 lost jobs. Indigenous tourism faces unique challenges due to its reliance on rural infrastructure, higher transportation costs, and limited financial resources, making it especially vulnerable to these economic shocks. The Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) is actively advocating for affected businesses, but the situation highlights the urgent need for coordinated cross-border policy solutions and advocacy—core to the BBTC’s mission.
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FEBRUARY 2025:
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Impact of Trump Tariffs on the Tourism Sector - The Conference Board of Canada
U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods and Canada’s retaliatory measures are expected to significantly raise costs for cross-border tourism businesses, with inflation projected to be up to 1.9% higher if tariffs persist. Short-term tariffs could reduce tourism sector GDP by $740 million and eliminate 13,100 jobs by 2029, while two-year tariffs may cause an $8.2 billion GDP decline and nearly 176,800 job losses, severely impacting cross-border travel and especially threatening the Indigenous tourism sector, which already faces unique challenges.
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Boost Indigenous business to counter Trump’s tariff threats, leaders say - North Shore News
Tariff threats from U.S. President Donald Trump have created economic uncertainty for Canada, particularly impacting Indigenous businesses that are deeply tied to local communities and resources. Shannin Metatawabin, CEO of the National Aboriginal Capital Corporation Association, and other Indigenous leaders urge Canadian governments and consumers to invest in First Nations enterprises, which are less likely to relocate and more likely to generate direct benefits for local economies. The article notes that Indigenous businesses, which contribute $56.1 billion to Canada’s GDP, face unique challenges such as limited access to capital due to the Indian Act and significant infrastructure gaps. These vulnerabilities are magnified by potential U.S. tariffs, especially in sectors like construction, retail, and natural resources—areas critical to both Indigenous and national economic health. It underscores the necessity of including First Nations in any economic response or resource development strategy, as most critical resources are located on Indigenous lands. Assembly of First Nations National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak stresses that provinces cannot act unilaterally on resource extraction without First Nations’ involvement.