United States to lose $12.5 billion in international traveler spending in 2025: “This is a wake-up call for the U.S.”
This organization warns that the U.S. could lose billions if action is not taken to encourage tourists to visit this summer.
As Donald Trump’s return to the White House has reverberated around the world, travel booking websites and market experts are forecasting significant decreases in the number of tourists the country can expect this summer.
In 2024, the US hosted 72 million tourists, and this figure could drop dramatically, with Airways Magazine reporting that bookings from Europe to the United States for June, July, and August were down by more than 12 percent, compared to last year.
The financial losses from a decrease in tourism
In terms of a hit to GDP, a decline in tourists could hurt the economy as they will not be bringing their spending power. The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) projects the loss in 2025 to stand around $12.5 billion, warning that these figures should be a “wake-up call” to the administration. “Notably, international visitor spending to the U.S. is projected to fall to just under $169BN this year, down from $181BN in 2024. This significant shortfall represents a 22.5% decline compared to the previous peak,” stated the WTTC earlier this month.
Though the sudden drop in visitors will primarily impact industries that support the tourist economy, namely lodging, hospitality, and entertainment, the WTTC warns that the effects could be far-reaching and cut into employment levels “from coast to coast.” The WTTC’s president and CEO, Julia Simpson, argued that “while other nations are rolling out the welcome mat, the U.S. government is putting up the ‘closed’ sign.”
Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.