Mexico continues to be a global tourism hotspot, with the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI) reporting a 0.7% increase in international visitors in July 2024 compared to the same month in 2023. The country’s resilience in attracting foreign tourists is evident, with 3.99 million foreign visitors arriving in July 2024, up from 3.97 million in the previous year.
Border Tourism Boosts Visitor Numbers
One of the standout areas of growth came from the influx of border tourists, which saw a significant rise. The number of visitors crossing into Mexico by land surged by 7% year-on-year, with over 1.64 million people entering the country through its borders in July alone. This increase is an important factor in the overall growth, as border tourism remains a crucial aspect of Mexico’s tourism industry, particularly in northern regions adjacent to the United States.
In contrast, there was a notable decline in air arrivals, traditionally the primary mode of entry for international tourists visiting Mexico’s resort destinations. The number of visitors arriving by air dropped by 3.6%, reaching 1.94 million people in July 2024. Despite this decrease, the overall tourism numbers still saw positive growth due to the rise in border tourism.
Tourist Spending: A Mixed Picture
In terms of international tourist spending, the total expenditure in July 2024 amounted to $2,497.5 million, marking a slight increase of 0.5% year-on-year. This shows that, despite some fluctuations in the number of tourists and their average expenditures, the tourism sector in Mexico remains a key contributor to the national economy.
However, while total spending increased, the average expenditure per tourist experienced a marginal decline. In July 2024, the average foreign tourist spent $624.42, a slight 0.2% decrease from the previous year. This decline in per-capita spending may reflect changes in the type of tourists visiting the country or evolving travel habits, such as shorter stays or more budget-conscious travelers.
A Steady Recovery Post-Pandemic
These latest figures reflect a stabilization of the tourism industry in Mexico, following the sharp disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2023, Mexico welcomed 42.15 million international tourists, a 10% increase compared to 2022, showcasing the country’s strong rebound. Foreign exchange earnings from international visitors also grew, reaching $28,682.6 million in 2023, an almost 9% increase year-on-year.
The tourism sector continues to be a vital part of Mexico’s economy, driving employment and development in various regions, from bustling cities like Mexico City to coastal paradises such as Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, and Los Cabos. Despite challenges such as fluctuating visitor numbers via air travel, the overall picture for Mexico’s tourism sector remains positive.
Outlook for 2024 and Beyond
As Mexico continues to build on its reputation as a top global destination, the focus may now shift toward improving air travel visitor numbers, especially given the declines seen in July 2024. Additionally, maintaining a steady flow of border tourism and maximizing the benefits from higher tourist spending will be crucial in ensuring long-term growth.
With a diverse offering of cultural heritage, pristine beaches, and vibrant cities, Mexico remains a compelling destination for travelers worldwide. The government’s focus on sustainable tourism practices and infrastructure development may also help maintain the country’s position as one of the most visited nations in the world.