As the United States doubles down on steep tariff policies under President Donald Trump, the global reaction is beginning to impact another key pillar of the American economy — tourism. In response to growing trade tensions and nationalist rhetoric from Washington, coordinated boycotts and informal travel bans by non-Americans are gathering momentum, raising concern across global markets.
European travel agencies and tour operators report a noticeable dip in interest among travelers when it comes to visiting the U.S., especially to key tourist hubs like Los Angeles and New York City. Canada, a close neighbor and ally, is among the most vocal in its backlash. Many Canadians cite Trump’s dismissive comments toward Canadian sovereignty — even jokingly calling it the “51st state” — as reason enough to cancel their U.S. travel plans.
According to Goldman Sachs, this shift could result in up to $90 billion in economic losses for the U.S., including both public revenue and private sector income. Much of that stems from reduced international spending on lodging, dining, entertainment, and retail services, all heavily reliant on foreign visitors.
Beyond symbolic protest, there’s a growing sense of fear among some international travelers. Reports of tourists and even U.S. citizens being mistakenly detained or wrongfully deported due to administrative errors have added to the anxiety. Though the majority of deportations target undocumented individuals, the rising number of cases involving lawful travelers has created a chilling effect.
European governments have yet to issue formal travel advisories, but diplomatic sources say they are watching closely. Officials in Berlin and Paris warn that prolonged anti-immigrant and isolationist messaging from the White House could further damage the perception of the U.S. as a safe and welcoming destination.
With summer and Christmas seasons typically marking the peak of U.S. tourism revenues, analysts in Europe suggest this could be one of the weakest years in recent memory. The loss of tourists not only hits American hospitality industries but also affects European carriers and tour networks that rely on transatlantic traffic.
Trump’s focus on “America First” and revivalist nationalism may appeal to his domestic base, but the economic fallout — especially in areas like tourism and international goodwill — could leave long-term scars. As one Brussels official put it: “You cannot isolate your allies and expect them to come spend their holidays on your shores.”