ALEXANDRIA, VA — The Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) is warning that potential changes to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) operations at certain airport ports of entry could negatively impact international travel and the U.S. economy.

In a statement issued May 29, Suzanne Neufang, CEO of the GBTA, expressed concern over reports that the U.S. Administration is considering operational changes that could include the withdrawal of CBP officers from major gateway airports.

As reported by Travelweek last week, U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mulin doubled down on his threat to withdraw U.S. Customs and B/order Protection officers from airports in so-called “sanctuary cities.”

According to GBTA, disruptions to CBP operations could create delays, uncertainty and congestion at key U.S. entry points, affecting both leisure and business travel as well as international commerce and supply chains.

“Efficient, reliable, and secure entry into the U.S. is foundational to both leisure and business travel. Disruptions to CBP operations could create delays, uncertainty and congestion at critical entry points into the U.S. These challenges would have cascading effects across business activity, international commerce and supply chains that depend on the seamless movement of people and goods,” said Neufang.

GBTA noted that international inbound business travel spending in the U.S. totals US$50.7 billion annually, supporting jobs, investment and economic growth. The association warned that policies creating additional barriers at the border could discourage travel for meetings, events and investment opportunities.

“Policies that introduce friction at the border could discourage travel to the U.S. for meetings, events and investment opportunities – at a time when global competition for international travelers and business activity is intensifying. The U.S. cannot afford unintended consequences that limit its accessibility or competitiveness,” said Neufang.

GBTA is urging the U.S. Administration to carefully assess the impact of any proposed changes on travellers, businesses and the aviation sector. Added Neufang: “Policies must protect national security while ensuring the U.S. remains accessible, competitive and open for business.”