WTTC warns of economic impact from US border policy changes

New research from the World Travel & Tourism Council revealed that proposed changes to the US ESTA programme requiring wider social media disclosures could reduce international visitor spending by up to USD $15.7bn and threaten 157,000 American jobs.

One-third of international travellers indicated they would be less likely to visit the US if the changes proceed, based on surveys across ESTA-eligible markets. Awareness stands at 66pc among respondents, suggesting quick effects on travel sentiment. A larger share views the policy as making the US less welcoming for leisure and business travel. Economic modelling shows potential losses of 4.7m arrivals from ESTA countries in a high-impact scenario, alongside broader GDP reductions.

Gloria Guevara shared “Security at the U.S. border is vital but the planned policy changes will damage job creation, which the U.S. Administration values so much. Our research finds that over 150,000 jobs could be lost if this policy goes ahead, the same number usually created each quarter in the U.S. Even modest shifts in visitor behaviour, put off by the planned changes, will have real economic consequences for U.S. Travel & Tourism, particularly in a highly competitive global market. WTTC urges U.S. policymakers to carefully assess this policy and its consequences for the economy and jobs. Travel & Tourism is a critical driver of the American economy, job creation and international connectivity, with one in three jobs in the world created by the sector.”