The United States has experienced a significant drop in tourist arrivals, partly due to stricter immigration policies and international tensions during Donald Trump’s presidency. As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, there is anticipation about whether football enthusiasts will help bolster visitor numbers.
Historically a top global vacation spot, the US has attracted travelers to popular destinations like Disney World and Times Square. However, China is now on track to surpass the US as the world’s leading tourism economy in the coming years, as per a report by Bloomberg news agency.
The tourism industry in China witnessed a growth rate of 9.9% last year, outpacing the US. Gloria Guevara, President and CEO of the World Travel & Tourism Council, suggested that if both nations continue growing at similar rates, China could overtake the US as the top tourism economy by the end of the decade.
Guevara highlighted the contrasting trends, stating that while the US is experiencing a decline, China is rapidly ascending. She emphasized that if this trend persists, China could close in on the US within a few years.
With the forthcoming FIFA World Cup scheduled to commence in June, there is hope for a potential increase in US tourism. However, reports indicate concerns within the US tourism sector due to currency fluctuations and the Trump administration’s immigration policies, which have dissuaded travelers, particularly Canadians, who are a significant source of foreign tourists to the US.
In 2025, Canadian tourism to the US dropped by nearly 30%, with declines also observed from Australia, India, and Western Europe. Residents in Lewiston, New York, bordering Canada, have noted a substantial decrease in Canadian visitors, expressing frustration and disillusionment with the current state of affairs.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature 75% of matches held in the US. While host nations typically benefit from sporting events, the US tourism industry is cautiously optimistic about the World Cup’s potential to boost tourism and revenue following a challenging period.
However, uncertainties loom due to Trump’s foreign policy decisions, including the introduction of a $250 visa integrity fee and plans for social media screening of certain visitors, making travel to the US less appealing. Calls for boycotting the US have emerged in response to some of Trump’s policies, with former FIFA President Sepp Blatter advising fans to avoid attending the World Cup in the US.
Despite these concerns, flight and hotel bookings have shown an increase since the announcement of game dates and locations in December. The tourism sector is now waiting to assess if a recovery in tourism is achievable in 2026.