Early Surge Fades: Nashville’s Tourism Braces for Tariff Fallout

President Trump’s tariffs on Canadian imports, including a 10% tariff on energy and a 25% tariff on other goods, are shaking Nashville’s tourism-driven economy. Canadians account for nearly half of Nashville’s international visitors, critical to the city's $7 billion annual tourism revenue. Officials now warn that a projected 10% drop in Canadian tourists could slash over $2 billion in spending.

Interestingly, Nashville experienced a first-quarter boom as Canadian travelers rushed to visit before the tariffs and political tensions fully took hold. Hotel bookings, restaurant sales, and music venue attendance briefly surged, masking deeper vulnerabilities. Analysts caution that a steep downturn will likely follow this early gain.

City Councilman Jacob Kupin underscored the broader risk, noting that Canadian tourists are “voting with their feet” amid rising anti-American sentiment fueled by tariff disputes and annexation rhetoric. Local businesses, particularly downtown, are preparing for a sustained dip in foot traffic and revenue as trade negotiations stall.

Nashville’s vibrant tourism sector faces a turbulent year ahead without swift resolution.

Tags:
#Trump tariffs #Nashville economy #Canadian tourism #Nashville Business #US Canada trade

Wendy Huffman is the Editor of the WBN News Nashville Edition & Founder & Owner of The Brilliant Edge Agency, delivering premier executive search and staffing solutions to help businesses secure top talent using the DREAM™ process. She is also the founder and CEO of the international nonprofit Letsmakethedifference.org, based in Nashville.

Connect with Wendy on Linkedin.com/in/wendyhuffman

Sources:
City of Nashville Tourism Reports, U.S. Commerce Department, Councilman Jacob Kupin Statement, Nashville Business Journal, Canadian Travel Association