Cross-border travel from Canada to the U.S. has hit its lowest point since the pandemic, according to new data from U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Nearly 900,000 fewer Canadians crossed in March compared to last year, a decline tied to ongoing trade tensions.
Experts, including RIT economist Dr. Amit Batabyal, say the drop reflects a Canadian “protest vote” against U.S. tariffs, with tourism, retail, and outlet malls in border states like New York taking a major hit. The absence of Canadian spending is expected to strain local economies.
While there’s a temporary 90-day tariff pause, uncertainty looms. Economists warn that rising costs and reduced foreign purchases could deepen the impact if tariffs return in full.
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