Cross-border travel from B.C. to Washington drops nearly 30% as trade disputes strain tourism and impact border town businesses.
Border Traffic Decline Raises Concerns
British Columbians are making fewer trips to the United States this summer, with new data showing a sharp year-over-year drop at key border crossings. The Border Policy Research Institute (BPRI) in Bellingham, Washington, reports a 29% decrease in Canadian vehicle entries at the Peace Arch and Pacific Highway checkpoints in July 2025.
Travel Trends Mirror Broader Downturn
According to BPRI director Laurie Trautman, cross-border traffic had already fallen by almost 30% in February before plunging by up to 50% in April. Last month’s figures equate to roughly 5,000 fewer Canadian vehicles than in July 2024, with an estimated two to three passengers per car. Such declines have been rare over the past three decades, seen previously only during major disruptions like the COVID-19 pandemic or the post-9/11 border closures.
Trade Dispute at the Core
Analysts point to an ongoing trade dispute between Canada and the United States as a key factor discouraging leisure travel. The International Trade Administration reports that foreign travel to the U.S. is down nationwide, while the World Travel and Tourism Council forecasts a $12.5-billion loss in international visitor spending this year.
Local Businesses Feel the Absence
Border towns in Washington, especially those that traditionally cater to Canadian visitors, are feeling the shift. In Birch Bay, however, the impact has been less severe. The coastal community is experiencing steady foot traffic from domestic tourists, according to the local Chamber of Commerce. Event coordinator Sacha Sanguinetti describes it as a rise in “U.S. regional business,” with visitors arriving from Washington and neighbouring states.
A Sweet Shop’s View from the Frontline
The C Shop, a family-run confectionery operating in Birch Bay since 1971, has long relied on Canadian customers. Owner Keith Alesse says the number of B.C. licence plates in his parking lot has dropped noticeably this year. “We really miss having our Canadians around,” he says. Despite the decline, the shop’s revenue has only slipped about 2% compared with last year, thanks to strong domestic tourism.
Hope for a Return to Normal
While some Washington businesses are managing to offset the loss of Canadian visitors, many remain eager for cross-border travel to recover. Alesse and other business owners hope for a swift resolution to trade tensions, believing that familiar summer patterns will resume once relations improve. Until then, B.C. travellers may remain a rare sight on the other side of the line.
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