Washington: Former US President Donald Trump has cautioned that reducing the number of international students in American universities would severely damage the higher education system and economy.

In an interview with a news agency, Trump said foreign students are a crucial source of funding for universities. “Reducing international student enrollment will lead to widespread college closures and economic losses. Allowing foreign students to study here is good for the business practices that keep our higher education system strong,” he said.

Trump added that many American institutions depend heavily on overseas students for their financial survival. “A sharp decline in students from China and other countries could put half of the colleges in the United States out of business,” he warned.

He noted that international students contribute trillions of dollars to the American economy and pay nearly double the tuition of domestic students. “It's not that I like them, but I see it as a business,” he remarked.

Trump's comments contrast sharply with several measures taken during his presidency to tighten restrictions on international student visas, including revocations and deportations of some students involved in pro-Palestinian demonstrations.