The beginning of 2026 presents a negative outlook for the U.S. tourism industry, specifically concerning air travelers from Mexico and Canada, the country's two largest international markets. According to the International Trade Administration (ITA) report, the total number of air tourists arriving from these two nations to the U.S. in January totaled 1.307 million, marking a 7.5% decline compared to previous figures. This downturn is significant as it highlights an ongoing trend affecting the tourism sector, signaling potential long-term implications for businesses relying on international visitors.

The Advanced Research Center for Sustainable Tourism at Anáhuac University has linked this decline in air tourism to the tariffs and immigration policies implemented by former President Donald Trump. One of Trump’s earliest actions upon taking office was to impose new tariffs on various products from major trading partners, creating ripples across the border economies and affecting cross-national travel. These measures have likely contributed to an atmosphere of uncertainty and reluctance among potential travelers, impacting their decisions to visit the U.S.

As tourism plays a critical role in the U.S. economy, a sustained decrease in visitors from Mexico and Canada may have broader repercussions, including reduced revenue for hospitality sectors, airlines, and local businesses. Stakeholders in the tourism industry may need to adapt their strategies to counteract these declines, addressing potential concerns over safety, pricing, and accessibility to restore confidence and boost tourism figures in the wake of these adverse policies.