President Donald Trump hosted a meeting with tourism leaders at the White House on September 2, with prominent figures from the casino industry in attendance.
Trump met with the US Travel Association, led by Geoff Freeman, a former head of the American Gaming Association (AGA), as well as executives from MGM Resorts, Caesars Entertainment, and Hard Rock, in the Oval Office. The focus was on strategies to boost tourism post the successful 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Freeman set a lofty target of attracting 100 million international visitors by 2030. Last year, the US saw 68.3 million foreign visitors, but this was a 5.5% decrease from 2024 due to a drop in Canadian visits by 20%.
If the US reaches 100 million international visitors, it could rival France as the most visited country globally. Trump expressed enthusiasm for Freeman’s goal, excited at the prospect of surpassing France as the top tourism destination.
With previous casino ownership experience in Atlantic City and Lake Michigan, Trump believes destinations like Las Vegas can play a significant role in meeting tourism targets.
“I’ve known them in my private life, many of them, and they’re tremendously talented people,” said Trump about the tourism and gaming leaders.
Freeman credited Trump’s policies on visas and customs for the success of the World Cup, stating it showcased everything the US has to offer and instilled a sense of pride among Americans.
Gaming Industry Seeks Administration Partnership
MGM Resorts President and CEO Bill Hornbuckle spoke on behalf of the casino gaming industry. He highlighted the positive impact of the World Cup on the country but identified challenges faced by Las Vegas and other key markets.
Travel is difficult. Travel needs your leadership. If we’re going to meet 100 million, we need your help, your direct involvement. If we can get there, it’s 400,000 more jobs. And in a place like Las Vegas, it means a lot,” Hornbuckle emphasized.
Hornbuckle expressed gratitude to Trump for the “No Tax on Tips” initiative, a part of the Republicans’ legislation that benefits tipped workers by allowing deductions for tipped income on federal taxes.
“I want to thank you on behalf of our employees. ‘No Tax on Tips’ has been incredibly beneficial,” Hornbuckle acknowledged.
Las Vegas Visitation
Las Vegas ranked sixth in overseas visitors last year with 2.2 million travelers, according to the International Trade Association. However, there was a 14.7% year-over-year decline in overseas visitors in 2025, resulting in a loss of approximately 380,000 travelers.
Top US cities for overseas visitors included New York (8.9M), Miami (5.1M), Orlando (4.3M), Los Angeles (3.7M), and San Francisco (2.4M).