A Puerto Vallarta business chamber says the local economy is still feeling the effects of the February 22 security incidents. The reported drop is not limited to one type of business. Restaurants, hotels, and other commercial services were among those affected, according to the chamber’s president. The estimate comes as tourism officials and airport data have pointed to weaker visitor traffic after the same events. The question now is how quickly local sales can recover before the next high season.
Canaco reports lower sales after February incidents
The National Chamber of Commerce, Services and Tourism in Puerto Vallarta said its members have recorded a drop of about 30% in sales following the security incidents of February 22.
Alejandro de León García, president of Canaco-Servytur Puerto Vallarta, said the estimate is still being reviewed. He said the figure comes from the losses seen among chamber members, including businesses in the hotel and restaurant sectors.
The drop could be higher when looking at the wider commercial sector, since not all businesses are part of the chamber. De León said the February incidents had a clear effect on local income.
Business impact followed wider disruption
The February 22 incidents followed the military operation in Jalisco that ended with the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel.
The reaction included roadblocks, burned vehicles, and attacks in several parts of Jalisco. Puerto Vallarta was among the places most affected in daily activity, business operations, and tourism movement.
The disruption also reached the airport. Passenger traffic later weakened, with international arrivals showing sharp declines in March and April compared with the same months last year.
For local businesses, that meant fewer customers during a period when many depend on visitor spending. Restaurants, shops, hotels, and service providers were left to measure the effects after the immediate emergency passed.
Recovery now tied to events and high season
Canaco-Servytur said it is looking toward economic reactivation through larger events and the return of stronger visitor flows.
De León said the 2026 World Cup period could help bring some recovery to Puerto Vallarta. He also pointed to the next high season as a moment when businesses and chambers expect to be better positioned.
The chamber’s statement did not provide a full citywide estimate of losses. It also did not give a timetable for when sales could return to previous levels.
