In a significant boost to Mexico’s tourism sector, officials have reported a record-breaking surge in international visitor spending for the year 2023.
Federal Tourism Minister Miguel Torruco revealed that travelers entering Mexico contributed a staggering $30.8 billion to the country’s economy, marking a notable 10 percent increase from the previous year and an impressive 25.4 percent surge compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019.
According to travelpulse.com, This surge in spending reflects a positive trend in Mexico’s tourism recovery, showcasing the resilience and appeal of the country as a top global destination.
In total, SECTUR revealed that 75.02 million international visitors visited the nation last year, a 13.7 percent increase from 2022. The overall incoming traveler numbers still fell 23 percent short of the 2019 total.
Air travel was the most popular arrival method, with 22.83 million people flying to Mexico. Of those who arrived via plane, data shows they spent $25.7 billion last year, a nine percent increase compared to 2022.
On average, international tourists spent an average of $680 while in Mexico.
“The historic result in foreign exchange earnings from international visitors confirms that the tourism policy implemented by President Andrés Manuel López Obrador is the right one,” Torruco told Mexico News Daily.
As for 2024, Torruco revealed that tourism officials believe 42.46 million international tourists will travel to the country in 2024, with those arriving via commercial airline spending an average of $1,155.
In addition, total spending for all international visitors is expected to reach $31.14 billion.