Background on Mexico’s Tourism Sector
Mexico has been a significant player in the global tourism industry, consistently ranking high among Latin American countries. The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) frequently highlights Mexico’s prominence in various tourism categories. However, recent projections indicate both growth and a shift in Mexico’s standing within the top 10 most attractive international tourism destinations.
Current Tourism Economic Impact
In 2024, the tourism sector contributed $274.4 billion to Mexico’s economy, according to the WTTC. This figure is expected to grow by 2.4% in 2025, reaching $281 billion.
Ranking Shift in 2025
Despite this positive growth, Mexico will drop from 7th to 8th place in the ranking of countries with the highest tourism impact. Spain is projected to surpass Mexico, growing by 4.8% and reaching a tourism impact of $283 billion.
Top Performing Countries
- United States: $2.5 trillion (1st place)
- China: $1.9 trion (from $1.6 trillion, growing by 16%)
Mexico’s Strengths and Challenges
Domestic tourists have been a significant contributor to Mexico’s tourism sector, generating $206 billion in 2024. This places Mexico 5th among countries with the highest domestic tourism spending, just behind the UK, Germany, China, and the US. However, Mexico ranks 14th in international tourism spending, which is projected to reach $39.6 billion in 2025.
Investment in Tourism
Mexico ranks 14th globally in tourism investment, with $15.4 billion invested in 2024. Brazil, on the other hand, ranks 13th with $19 billion invested in tourism.
Employment Impact of Tourism
The WTTC reports that tourism-related activities in Mexico generated 7.7 million jobs, placing the country 8th worldwide in job creation. Globally, these activities support 356 million jobs, accounting for 10.6% of all employment opportunities.
Future Projections
According to the WTTC, tourism will create one out of every three jobs over the next decade. Gloria Guevara Manzo, interim CEO of WTTC, notes that tourism is one of the few activities less likely to lose jobs due to increased use of artificial intelligence.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: What is the projected growth of Mexico’s tourism economic impact by 2025? A: The WTTC estimates a 2.4% growth, reaching $281 billion.
- Q: How will Mexico’s ranking change in the top 10 most attractive international tourism destinations by 2025? A: Mexico will drop from 7th to 8th place, as Spain is projected to surpass it.
- Q: What are the main sources of tourism spending in Mexico? A: Domestic tourists contribute significantly, generating $206 billion in 2024. International tourism spending is projected to reach $39.6 billion in 2025.
- Q: How does Mexico compare to other countries in terms of tourism investment? A: Mexico ranks 14th globally in tourism investment, with $15.4 billion invested in 2024.
- Q: What is the impact of tourism on employment in Mexico and globally? A: Tourism-related activities in Mexico generated 7.7 million jobs, and globally, these activities support 356 million jobs.
