Josefina Rodríguez: The Youngest Mexican Politician in Claudia Sheinbaum’s Cabinet Tackles Tourism Challenges

Web Editor

April 26, 2025

a typewriter with a lot of papers on it and the words opinion written in black and white on the top,

Introduction to Josefina Rodríguez

Josefina Rodríguez, at 35 years old, is the youngest member of Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo’s cabinet as the newly appointed Secretary of Tourism for the Federal Government of Mexico. Born in Atlangatepec, Tlaxcala, Rodríguez has taken on the significant responsibility of leading Mexico’s tourism sector amidst recent challenges and fragmentation.

Background and Preparation

Rodríguez recently arrived in Baja California, brimming with enthusiasm to finalize preparations for the 49th edition of the Tianguis Turístico de México 2025, celebrating its 50th anniversary. She prefers communication via WhatsApp, ensuring her team’s immediate attention to her requests.

Overcoming Challenges and Building Unity

Despite the demanding schedule ahead, Rodríguez remains motivated by the full support she receives from Palacio Nacional in Mexico City. Her primary challenge is to reconcile the fragmented and disgruntled tourism sector following her predecessor’s tenure. The lack of strategic national and international promotion left the private sector to fend for itself.

Rodríguez emphasizes unity among all stakeholders, though time and decisive actions are still needed to solidify this collaboration. Critics once viewed her as inexperienced, but now they acknowledge her determination and growing influence.

Key Initiatives and Innovations

One of Rodríguez’s flagship initiatives is the launch of the Community Tourism Program, in which the Escuela Superior de Turismo (IPN) plays a crucial role. She aims to break traditional patterns and surpass previous business meeting records by innovating the format of the Tianguis Turístico.

Though Rodríguez may opt against visiting every stand at exhibition centers, she understands the importance of expressing gratitude to participants. Her innovative approach could redefine traditional networking customs.

Collaboration and Support

Rodríguez benefits from strong alliances, notably with Miguel Aguiñiga, the tourism representative in the host entity. Together with PTG Consulting’s expert team and Omar Macedo, they strive to ensure the Tianguis Turístico’s success.

Jaime Morett: Another Young Force in Tourism

Alongside Rodríguez, Jaime Morett, another young and ambitious figure in tourism, will attend the Tianguis Turístico. Morett, known for his Popular Tourism model, will share his vision and work plan with attendees. His team’s innovative approach has garnered attention within the tourism sector.

Key Questions and Answers

  • Who is Josefina Rodríguez? She is the youngest member of Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo’s cabinet, appointed as the Secretary of Tourism for the Federal Government of Mexico.
  • What challenges does she face? Rodríguez aims to reconcile a fragmented tourism sector following her predecessor’s tenure, which left the private sector without strategic national and international promotion.
  • What are her key initiatives? Rodríguez plans to launch the Community Tourism Program and innovate the Tianguis Turístico format, aiming to surpass previous business meeting records.
  • Who is Jaime Morett, and what is his role? Morett is another young tourism leader who will attend the Tianguis Turístico. He advocates for Popular Tourism and will share his vision and work plan with attendees.