Nungesser Warns of Trade Fight's Devastating Impact on Louisiana Tourism

Louisiana Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser is sounding the alarm about the impact of the US-Canada trade fight on the state's economy, particularly tourism and businesses.

Nungesser has been warning that the escalating tariffs are affecting not just the national economy but also Louisiana's economy, which relies heavily on Canadian resources for economic activity.

He pointed out that Canada accounts for around 40% of Louisiana's international tourism market, with an estimated 185,000 Canadians visiting the state in 2024 and spending nearly $194 million while there.

The city of New Orleans welcomed 19.46 million visitors in 2025, who spent approximately $10.8 billion, supporting over 85,000 jobs and careers in the local economy.

Nungesser has been trying to reverse the trend by leading a Louisiana tourism delegation to Toronto, Montréal, and Québec City last September, but the trade dispute has become more serious with Trump's new 50% tariffs on Canadian imports taking effect this month.