The USA is expected to see a $12.5bn drop in tourist visitor spending this year, leaving annual growth at a mere 0.7%.
That is according to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), which has published its latest state of the global tourism industry report at its annual Global Summit in Rome.
While the US remains the world’s most powerful travel and tourism market – contributing $2.6tn to GDP and sustaining millions of jobs –its future is not fully secure. The WTTC has warned that without destination promotion, traveller-friendly policies, and reduced visa costs, the country could lose its competitive edge.
However, since the summer, Brand USA – the agency in charge of attracting foreign tourism into America – has been targeted by US lawmakers for a massive cut to its funding; while the price of the ESTA visa – allowing entry into the States – has almost doubled (read about both below).
Tensions Simmer Beneath the Surface as Brand USA Unveils New Global Campaign | ittn.ie
ESTA Visa Fee to Increase from $21 to $40 from September 30 | ittn.ie
