A coalition of North American tourism associations is sounding the alarm about declining cross-border travel between the United States and Canada, warning of substantial economic losses throughout 2025 if current trends continue.
The group, which includes eight major tourism organizations from both countries, points to policies from the U.S. administration and reciprocal tariffs from Canada as creating an "environment of instability" that threatens the industry's recovery.
Recent data shows measurable impacts already taking shape. According to Stats Canada, February saw a 13.1% decline in Canadians flying back from the U.S. compared to February 2024. For the U.S., projections indicate foreign tourist spending could fall by 11%, representing an $18 billion loss in 2025.
Air travel bookings paint an even more concerning picture. Advanced bookings between Canada and the U.S. for April total fewer than 300,000, down more than 75% year-over-year according to OAG data. Each month from May through September shows advanced bookings down between 71.4% and 72.2%.
The economic stakes are high for both nations. The coalition notes that U.S. visitors spend approximately $13 billion annually in Canada, supporting jobs and thousands of tourism operators throughout the country. The U.S. travel sector could face losses of up to $64 billion by the end of 2025 when combining decreased international and domestic travel.
In response, the coalition is advocating for eliminating barriers and easing border restrictions to revitalize tourism economies on both sides of the border. The group emphasizes that air transport is crucial for economic integration, trade promotion and creating employment opportunities.
The signatory organizations are urging industry stakeholders to share their message with elected officials, partners and travelers to help preserve the industry and ensure "safe, accessible, and enriching travel experiences for generations to come."
The coalition includes the Adventure Travel Trade Association, American Bus Association, Canadian Association of Tour Operators, Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada, International Inbound Travel Association, National Tour Association, Student & Youth Travel Association and United States Tour Operators Association.
Editor’s Note: This article was generated by AI, based on a press release distributed by United States Tour Operators Association. It was fact-checked and reviewed by a TravelAge West editor.
