Business owners in Queens, New York, are reporting a significant drop in sales, attributing the decline to heightened fears surrounding Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activities in the area. Several local establishments, including restaurants and money transfer services, have noted a sharp decrease in customer traffic, as many residents are opting to stay home due to concerns about immigration enforcement.
Manita Gurung, owner of Happy Kitchen, a Japanese restaurant in Jackson Heights, expressed concerns about the recent downturn in business. “Recently, there has been a significant decline in business. Compared to January of last year, there has been a considerable drop in the number of customers and a decrease in sales,” she said.
Gurung noted that the decline became particularly noticeable after January 20, with many regular customers no longer visiting. “Some customers are placing orders online, while others have called to say they have been avoiding going outside due to fears of immigration actions and are even unable to send their children to school,” she added.
Similarly, Tsomo Dasel, owner of Himalayan Yak Restaurant, which serves dishes from Nepal, Tibet, India, and Bhutan, reported a noticeable decline in business. “Especially after January 20, there has been a significant drop. Compared to last year, the decrease has been substantial,” Dasel said.

She linked the decline in customers to the increased presence of ICE in the area. “As ICE activities have increased, the number of customers coming in has also decreased to some extent,” she explained.
Raju Tuladhar, who operates a money transfer service in Jackson Heights, also reported a decline in customer visits. He stated that the rise in ICE activities has made customers hesitant to visit in person. “Since ICE activity has intensified in Jackson Heights, the number of customers coming for money transfers has dropped, and they are afraid to come in,” Tuladhar said.
He added that not only those with final orders of removal but also individuals with pending asylum cases or other immigration applications are feeling fearful. “Some have opted for online money transfer services instead. Compared to the same period last year, business has significantly declined,” he noted.
Many business owners in the area have also expressed concerns about ICE agents showing up at their establishments without warrants, further contributing to an atmosphere of fear and impacting customer behavior.
Amid growing concerns, a New York-based immigration attorney Bashu Phulara emphasized the importance of accurate information in a social media post. “Accurate information is essential when navigating immigration matters. While some individuals, including Nepalis, have final deportation orders, a large number of Nepalis are here lawfully through green cards, citizenship, asylum, or Temporary Protected Status (TPS),” the attorney stated.

“Unfortunately, misinformation from certain media outlets, individuals, and leaders has been creating unnecessary fear within immigrant communities. It’s important to stay informed, comply with immigration laws, and rely on verified facts. For anyone facing immigration issues, seeking proper legal guidance is the best way to protect their rights and future,” said Phulara.
The decline in business has raised concerns about the economic impact on Jackson Heights, a vibrant and diverse community known for its small businesses and immigrant population. As ICE enforcement continues to generate fear, local business owners and community leaders are calling for greater clarity, accurate information, and support to address the challenges they face. They urge residents to seek reliable legal advice and avoid falling victim to misinformation that may worsen the situation.