U.S. tourism groups want to win Canadian visitors back. A testy trade war isn't helping
Summary
Canadian travel to the U.S. dropped sharply after President Trump returned to office and tensions grew due to a trade dispute between the two countries. Despite ongoing efforts by U.S. tourism groups to attract Canadian visitors back, issues like tariffs and strained political relations are keeping traveler numbers below earlier levels.Key Facts
- Canadian visits to the U.S. fell significantly after President Trump returned to office and made remarks about making Canada the 51st state.
- A trade war began, with the U.S. imposing up to 50% tariffs on Canadian imports; Canada responded with similar measures.
- Tourism groups in U.S. states like New York and cities such as Las Vegas are offering discounts and promotions to attract Canadian travelers.
- The Canadian dollar's lower value and increasing travel costs have also made trips to the U.S. more expensive for Canadians.
- Canadian travel to the U.S. dropped 25% in border crossings and spending fell by about $2.4 billion CAD in 2025 compared to the previous year.
- There were small increases in travel in mid-2025, partly linked to the 2026 World Cup cohosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
- U.S. tourism organizations continue outreach efforts, including events and meetings with Canadian travel industry representatives.
- Political tensions remain high, including symbolic disputes like renaming Lake Ontario to "Lake America" as ordered by President Trump.
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