WHATCOM COUNTY, Wash.  (Metro)  -- It looks like a lot more Canadians are visiting the U.S. these days.

Data from Western Washington University's Center for Economic and Business Research shows the number of Canadian visitors to Whatcom County is up more than 11 percent so far this year.



Bellingham-Whatcom Chamber of Commerce President Ken Oplinger says he expects only a small increase in visitors over the summer, but he says we'll continue to see more spending by Canadians in Whatcom County.

Also starting today, duty-free exemption limits for Canadians are increasing.

Canadian shoppers are now allowed to claim $200 worth of purchases duty-free after being away from Canada for more than 24 hours.