In a startling report by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), the United States is projected to lose a staggering $12.5 billion in international tourist spending in 2025. The decline, a 22.5% drop from 2024's $181 billion to just $169 billion—signals more than just a temporary slump. It’s a clear indicator that America’s global travel appeal is fading.
Why Are Tourists Skipping the U.S.?
According to experts, the root cause lies in the lingering impact of Trump-era immigration and visa policies. Though years have passed since those policies were implemented, their shadow still looms large.
International visitors report feeling unwelcome, confused, and even fearful due to:
- Stricter visa procedures
- Border detentions
- Airport interrogations
These factors, amplified by media reports and personal experiences, are making travellers choose friendlier, more accessible destinations.
“Closed for Business” While the World Opens Up
WTTC CEO Julia Simpson warns that while countries like China are easing visa restrictions, the U.S. seems to be doing the opposite.
“While others roll out the welcome mat, the U.S. is putting up a ‘closed’ sign,” Simpson said bluntly.
The numbers reflect this truth. In 2019, the U.S. saw 79 million international visitors. That number fell to 72.4 million in 2024—and it's projected to fall further in 2025. In March alone, visits from major markets like Canada, the UK, and South Korea dropped significantly.
The Bigger Picture: A Global Race for Tourists
Among 184 economies analyzed by the WTTC and Oxford Economics, the United States is the only one expected to lose international visitors. Meanwhile, countries around the world are unlocking new policies to boost arrivals and support local businesses.
With 90% of the U.S. travel economy now relying on domestic tourism, the message is loud and clear: the world’s biggest tourism market may be turning its back on the world—and paying the price.
