Story perspectives

Tourism Plummets 2.9% Amid Geopolitical Tensions, Tariffs

1/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

In December 2025, international arrivals fell 2.9% year over year to 5.3 million, the eighth consecutive monthly drop.
Overseas visitation declined 2.5% for the year.
The decline is linked to tariffs and travel bans under U.S. President Donald Trump.
The economic impact includes a projected shortfall of $25–$29 billion affecting hospitality and retail.
Geopolitical tensions in the Americas, with Cuba, Colombia, and Mexico, deter travelers and threaten tourism jobs.

1 of 1

Story summary

In December 2025, international arrivals fell 2.9% year over year to 5.3 million, the eighth consecutive monthly drop.
Overseas visitation declined 2.5% for the year.
The decline is linked to tariffs and travel bans under U.S. President Donald Trump.
The economic impact includes a projected shortfall of $25–$29 billion affecting hospitality and retail.
Geopolitical tensions in the Americas, with Cuba, Colombia, and Mexico, deter travelers and threaten tourism jobs.