The United States has experienced a significant decrease in tourist arrivals, partially attributed to stricter immigration policies and global tensions during Donald Trump’s presidency. As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, there is anticipation about whether football enthusiasts will help boost the numbers.
Historically a popular vacation spot, the US, known for attractions like Disney World and Times Square, now faces competition from China, which is poised to become the world’s leading tourism economy in the coming years, as reported by Bloomberg news agency.
Notably, China’s travel and tourism sector saw a growth rate of 9.9% last year, outpacing the US. Gloria Guevara, President and CEO of the World Travel & Tourism Council, stated that if both countries continue on similar growth trajectories, China could surpass the US as the top tourism economy by the end of the decade.
Guevara emphasized the contrasting trends, stating, “While the US is shrinking, China is rising rapidly. If this trend persists, China could close in on the US within a few years.”
With the upcoming FIFA World Cup scheduled to start in June, there is a possibility of a surge in US tourism. Despite this potential, concerns loom within the US tourism industry due to factors like currency fluctuations and the Trump administration’s stances on issues such as immigration, which have deterred travelers, particularly Canadians, a significant source of foreign tourists to the US.
In 2025, Canadian travel to the US dropped by almost 30%, with declines also seen in visitors from Australia, India, and Western Europe. Residents of Lewiston, New York, bordering Canada, noted a substantial decrease in tourism, reflecting the broader trend of reduced international visits to the US.
As the US prepares to host 75% of the matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, there is hope within the tourism sector for a boost in visits and revenue. Despite the potential benefits of hosting major sporting events, concerns persist due to the impact of foreign policy decisions, such as the introduction of a $250 visa integrity fee and plans for social media screenings for certain visitors, making travel to the US less appealing.
Former FIFA President Sepp Blatter has even suggested avoiding the US for the World Cup, amidst calls for a boycott over certain policies. However, there has been an increase in flight and hotel bookings following the announcement of game dates and venues in December, offering a glimmer of hope for the industry.
The tourism sector will closely monitor developments in 2026 to assess the possibility of a recovery in US tourism.