Mexico City, Mexico – The Mexican government projects a significant increase in international tourism for 2024, expecting over 42 million visitors and revenue surpassing 32 billion dollars (approximately 29.39 billion euros). This optimistic forecast, exceeding the 38.3 million visitors and 28 billion dollars (25.716 million euros) generated in 2023, comes in the wake of the recent opening of the first three sections of the Mayan Train last December, and the upcoming completion of the project by the end of February.
Miguel Torruco, Mexico’s Secretary of Tourism, announced these expectations during a press conference at the Institute of Culture of Mexico, within the context of Fitur, a global tourism trade fair. The Mayan Train, spanning over 1,500 kilometers, is anticipated to enhance Mexico’s appeal, offering tourists diverse experiences beyond traditional beach vacations. The project aims to connect travelers to natural landscapes and the rich heritage of the Mayan civilization, including various archaeological parks.
Spain remains a vital source of tourism for Mexico, ranking as the fifth-largest contributor of visitors. In 2023, Mexico welcomed approximately 334,000 Spanish tourists, contributing 376.6 million dollars (345.8 million euros) to the country’s economy.
Fitur represents a significant promotional opportunity for Mexican tourism, especially for lesser-known regions like Tlaxcala. This year, Mexico is represented by 20 of its 32 states, including prominent destinations like Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Guadalajara, Puerto Vallarta, and Ixtapa Zihuatanejo. The Mexican delegation, comprising around 200 individuals, includes travel agencies, hotel associations, and airlines.
Torruco emphasizes the strategic relationship with Spain, acknowledging the country as a crucial investment partner. Mexico, he notes, has emerged as the ninth most significant destination for foreign direct investment in tourism. The government, led by President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, has initiated 105 large tourism projects since 2019. These efforts include the addition of 412 direct international flights to Mexico and a surge in foreign direct investment in tourism, totaling 4,275 million dollars (3,926.4 million euros) in the last year alone, marking a 260% increase from 2019.
The secretary highlighted the shift in tourism strategy, aiming to diversify offerings and cater to a more discerning, post-pandemic tourist demographic. The goal is to elevate Mexico’s standing not only in visitor numbers but also in per capita spending and foreign currency earnings. These initiatives seek to deliver new experiences while benefiting local communities, reflecting a broader vision for sustainable and inclusive growth in Mexican tourism.
Mexico City, Mexico – The Mexican government projects a significant increase in international tourism for 2024, expecting over 42 million visitors and revenue surpassing 32 . . .
