U.S. Chamber Welcomes President’s Effort to Boost U.S. Travel and Tourism

Executive Order Contains Many Proposals Long Sought by American Businesses

WASHINGTON, D.C.—President Obama’s executive order will help boost the travel and tourism industry and the overall economy by making it easier for foreign visitors to travel to the United States and spend their money here, said U.S. Chamber President and CEO Thomas J. Donohue.

“It’s time to put out the welcome mat for foreign visitors,” said Donohue. “The travel and tourism industry already employs 7.4 million Americans and generates more than $700 billion in revenue. But it could contribute so much more to our economic recovery if we eliminate excessive wait times at our borders, remove hassles at airports, streamline customs procedures, reduce bureaucracy, and reform our visa process. In fact, by restoring America’s share of the travel market to 2001 levels we could create 1.3 million jobs by 2020. The president’s executive order will help achieve that goal.”

Donohue cited four measures in particular that could have a positive impact. First, making the Global Entry program permanent will reduce clearance times at U.S. customs checkpoints. Second, allowing for specific low-risk travelers from Brazil and China to bypass the in-person visa application interview will increase efficiency. Third, increasing efforts to expand the Visa Waiver Program, including the nomination of Taiwan for consideration in the program, will help draw more international travelers to the U.S. Fourth, increasing non-immigrant visa processing capacity in emerging economies with growing middle classes – such as China, Brazil and India – which are projected to grow by 135%, 274%, and 50% respectively by 2016 when compared to 2010 – will help reduce the barriers that deter international travelers.

“When business visitors travel to the United States to buy products or attend conferences, training, and trade shows, they strengthen America’s role as the center of innovation and global commerce,” said Donohue. “They strengthen our economy and create jobs. And small businesses benefit the most because they are the heart of soul of the travel and tourism industry.

“Today’s announcement is an important first step in recognizing travel and tourism’s vital role in the U.S. economy, but we must continue to work to ensure that the actions in this Executive Order are actually implemented,” said Donohue. “That will ensure that the U.S. can meet increasing global demand in years to come.”

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business federation representing the interests of more than 3 million businesses of all sizes, sectors, and regions, as well as state and local chambers and industry associations.