Canadian Travel to US Cuts Spending by $790 Million as Trade Tensions Deepen
Updated
Updated · TravelAwaits · Sep 7
Canadian Travel to US Cuts Spending by $790 Million as Trade Tensions Deepen
3 articles · Updated · TravelAwaits · Sep 7
Summary
Statistics Canada said Canadian tourist spending in the United States fell by $790 million from January through March, extending a weak rebound even in a year boosted by the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Trade disputes, renewed tariffs and other political frictions have made US trips costlier and more socially charged, reinforcing a consumer pushback that is steering Canadians to other destinations.
Nearly 40% of Canadian trips into the US were same-day crossings, signaling shorter visits that limit hotel, dining and entertainment revenue.
New York City is already courting Canadians with targeted promotions, but one tour operator told the Financial Times Canadian clients have dropped to about 10% from 30% to 40% in 2024.
The pullback follows a 2025 shortfall of $3.3 billion in Canadian travel spending, with Florida, Las Vegas and the US Southwest among the hardest-hit markets.