Background on the Situation
The diplomatic rift between Peru and Mexico has raised concerns among Quintana Roo’s hotel industry leaders, prompting calls for swift resolution to avoid jeopardizing commercial and tourism exchanges between the two nations.
Key Players and Their Roles
Jesús Almaguer, the former president of hotel associations in Cancún, Puerto Morelos, and Isla Mujeres, expressed his disappointment regarding the strained relations:
“It’s unfortunate for us as a tourist destination. We hope that diplomatic efforts will help restore the relationship, as both nations should demonstrate their capability and willingness to resolve this issue.”
Almaguer emphasized the significance of Peruvian travelers to Mexico’s tourism industry, especially considering the current situation where Mexico cannot afford to risk a Latin American market:
- In 2024, Mexico welcomed 154,760 Peruvian travelers, with 67,563 arriving via Cancún (43% of the total).
- From January to September 2023, 72,925 Peruvian citizens visited Mexico, with 24,127 arriving in Cancún (33%).
Expert Opinion and Recommendations
Francisco Madrid, director of the Advanced Tourism Sustainability Research Center (STARC) at the Anáhuac University, echoed concerns about the diplomatic breakdown and reminded that Mexico had previously unilaterally suspended the Visa Waiver Agreement with Peru. This move has significantly impacted tourism not only with Peru but also with Brazil and Ecuador. Madrid urged decision-makers to prioritize tourism when contemplating such actions.
Government Response
The Mexican Secretariat of Foreign Relations (SRE) addressed the issue during a press conference with President Claudia Sheinbaum. They stated that consular operations in both countries would continue to ensure the welfare of citizens.
Roberto Velasco Álvarez, Subsecretary for the North, explained that despite the suspension of formal diplomatic links, consular functions would be maintained for humanitarian and protection reasons.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the current diplomatic situation between Peru and Mexico? There is a rift in relations, prompting concerns about the potential impact on commercial and tourism exchanges between the two nations.
- Why is this situation significant for Mexico’s tourism industry? Peru is an essential source market for Mexican tourism, with Cancún being a major entry point. The suspension of the visa waiver agreement has already affected traveler numbers.
- What actions have been taken by the Mexican government in response to this situation? The SRE has assured that consular operations will continue to support citizens, and Subsecretary Velasco Álvarez emphasized the preservation of consular functions for humanitarian and protection purposes.
