economy
‘Canadians don’t want to come here any more’: anger over Trump squeezes US border businesses
Shops and restaurants once bustling with tourists now struggle for survival as Canadians think twice about crossing the border
TL;DR
- Canadian tourism to US border towns has significantly declined due to Donald Trump's tariffs and annexation threats, compounded by fears of border detentions.
- Businesses in Lewiston, NY, such as bakeries and antique shops, report substantial drops in revenue, forcing cost-cutting measures.
- Destination Niagara has stopped advertising to Canadians and is focusing on attracting American tourists from other states.
- Historically, Canadians frequently crossed the border for shopping due to favorable exchange rates and lower sales tax, a trend that has now reversed.
- A 21% drop in Canadians entering New York state in 2025 and a 16.3% decrease in personal vehicle crossings in the Buffalo-Niagara Falls area indicate the severity of the decline.
- A poll found only 9% of Canadians view the US as a 'trustworthy ally,' with 51% having canceled US trips due to Trump's comments.
- Niagara Falls is planning a $200 million events center to attract sports tourism as an alternative.
- The decline in tourism threatens local tax revenues, impacting essential services like police and fire departments.