Media Contact
Adam Allington
With the global economy already under strain from an escalating trade war, the travel and tourism sectors are bracing for potential disruptions over the coming months
David Sherwyn
Professor of Hospitality Human Resources
David Sherwyn, professor of hospitality human resources and law, says the tourism industry is exposed to a number of potential consequences related to President Trump’s tariffs and immigration policies.
Sherwyn says:
“While no one knows exactly what will happen, the hospitality industry could be heavily, negatively, affected by the tariffs and labor shortages because the industry uses supplies such as food, textiles, cars and electronics, where prices will likely rise.
“The American tariffs are causing anti-American sentiment that could affect international travel. For example, Lake George, New York and Old Orchard Beach, Maine, both rely heavily on Canadian tourism. Will Europeans and Asians refrain from U.S. travel? That remains unclear.
“The hospitality industry relies heavily on immigrant and visa holders as a huge source of labor. With visas being limited and asylum and other visa’s being revoked, a labor shortage is very possible. A labor shortage could prevent the industry from providing services, and can cause hotels to raise room rates. Increased room rates will negatively affect international and domestic travel.”