Canadian Boycott of U.S. Hurting Border States, Congressional Report Finds

A decline in Canadian travel to the United States is having a serious economic impact on American border states, according to a new report released by the Democratic minority of the U.S. Congress’s Joint Economic Committee.

The report highlights that Canadian tourism contributed $20.5 billion to the U.S. economy in 2024 and supported nearly 140,000 American jobs. However, political tensions, tariff threats, and strained diplomatic relations under former President Donald Trump have led to a sharp drop in Canadian visits.

Passenger vehicle crossings between Canada and the U.S. fell by nearly 20% between January and October compared with the previous year, with border states such as Vermont, Maine, Washington, Montana, and New Hampshire among the hardest hit.

In New Hampshire alone, officials reported a 30% decline in Canadian visitors, while reservations at state-run campgrounds dropped by 71% in early 2025. Hotels, retail businesses, restaurants, and ferry services across multiple states reported reduced bookings, layoffs, and revenue losses.

The report attributes much of the decline to uncertainty caused by tariff policies, trade disruptions, and rhetoric about annexing Canada, which has discouraged Canadians from travelling south. Business owners warned that the damage could be long-lasting as Canadian tourists seek alternative destinations.

Democratic Senator Maggie Hassan said the findings show how political actions have strained long-standing cross-border relationships, putting American livelihoods at risk. The U.S. government, meanwhile, has defended its trade policies, stating that the matter is currently before the courts.