European travel buyers predict surging costs « Euro Weekly News
Boston, USA. Credit: Pexels, Dominik Gryzbon
New insights from Business Travel Show Europe indicate that nearly half (48 per cent) of European travel managers and procurement professionals anticipate increased travel costs to and from the United States under the new Trump Administration.
A recent survey of 115 corporate travel and procurement professionals found that 35 per cent also expect it to become more difficult to travel between Europe and the US.
Additionally, 44 per cent of respondents believe that Trump’s proposed removal of climate change quotas will reduce corporate pressure to accelerate sustainable travel initiatives.
While some organisations foresee increased travel to the US, the survey shows a mixed outlook: 9 per cent of respondents indicated they expect more trips, whereas 12 per cent predict a decline. A significant 29 per cent remain uncertain about the impact of Trump’s policies on corporate travel budgets and schedules.
Jonathan Carter-Chapman, Marketing Director of Business Travel Show Europe, commented: “The Trump Administration has only been in power for two months and policies that may affect corporate travel – trade tariffs, flight bans, possible environment legislation, and more – are still in a state of flux so it’s impossible to know for certain what the impact will be on travel and travellers to and from the United States. Despite that, many travel managers are proceeding with caution and, given the continued pressure to cut costs, are concerned.”
Awareness of ETA and ETIAS
Closer to home, the survey revealed that 83 per cent of respondents are familiar with the upcoming UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) scheme and the EU ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System), both set to be implemented in the final quarter of 2025. Only 14 per cent admitted to having no knowledge of these schemes, which will impact both business and leisure travellers.
Business Travel Show Europe 2025
The Business Travel Show Europe 2025 will take place at ExCeL London from June 25-26, running alongside the TravelTech Show and The Meetings Show. The event will bring together over 700 qualified buyers and 200 exhibitors, providing networking opportunities and expert-led conferences on corporate travel trends.
Registration is now open for travel buyers, bookers, managers, procurement professionals, and executive assistants booking corporate travel. More details can be found on the Business Travel Show Europe website.
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