### A Decline in International Tourists to Mexico in July
In July 2024, Mexico experienced a 3.7% decline in the arrival of international tourists, totaling 1,834,286 visitors, according to data from the Instituto Nacional de Migración (INM). The decrease has been attributed to Mexico’s reduced presence in at least 25 countries and the perception that other destinations are safer and more attractive, as highlighted by a report from Gemes Consultores.
The official figures show that the number of American tourists, which constitutes the largest segment of visitors to Mexico, dropped by 0.7% in July. Canadian visitors saw a sharper decline of 6.2%. Similarly, tourist arrivals from South America also fell, with significant decreases noted from Peru (-58.5%), Ecuador (-44.2%), Chile (-28.4%), Colombia (-12.3%), and Brazil (-2.7%).
European tourist numbers also declined from most countries, including the United Kingdom (-14.1%), the Netherlands (-15.7%), Belgium (-15.6%), Spain (-1.8%), Portugal (-10.4%), France (-7.2%), and Germany (-3.2%). In contrast, Mexico saw a notable increase in tourists from China and Japan, by 39% and 3.9%, respectively.
From January to July, the total number of foreign visitors reached 13,832,409, marking an annual increase of 3.7%. Addressing this downward trend, Braulio Arsuaga, president of the Consejo Nacional Empresarial Turístico (CNET), emphasized the need for a comprehensive national and international tourism promotion policy. He acknowledged that while reviving the Consejo de Promoción Turística de México is not the aim, more organic mechanisms are required to market the tourism sector effectively.
Arsuaga also warned that the upcoming judicial reform, expected to be published by President Andrés Manuel López Obrador on September 15, might have adverse impacts on tourism investments, potentially diverting capital to other countries.
### Additional Coverage: Governmental Actions to Boost Tourism
In response to the ongoing decline in international tourism, the Mexican government is considering several strategies to reinvigorate the sector. Initiatives include enhanced partnerships with international travel agencies and airlines, targeted marketing campaigns focusing on safety and unique cultural aspects, and improvements in tourism infrastructure. There is also a push to diversify tourist attractions beyond popular destinations like Cancun and Los Cabos to less frequented but culturally rich areas. Local officials remain optimistic that these efforts will help reverse the current trend and attract more international visitors in the coming months.
### Steps Mexico is Taking to Revitalize the Tourism Sector
In light of the tourism downturn, the Mexican government has announced a series of measures intended to revitalize the sector. Steps include:
1. **Enhanced International Partnerships**: Collaborations with global travel agencies and airlines to create attractive travel packages.
2. **Targeted Marketing Campaigns**: Focusing on highlighting the safety measures in place and showcasing Mexico’s rich cultural heritage.
3. **Infrastructure Improvements**: Upgrading tourist facilities and infrastructure to offer a more comfortable and appealing experience.
4. **Diversification of Tourist Destinations**: Promoting lesser-known but culturally significant destinations to diversify tourism flow and reduce congestion in popular spots.
Local tourism boards are hopeful these measures will not only halt the decline but also foster growth in the sector, thus supporting the broader economy.
For more updates on international tourism trends in Mexico and other related news, stay tuned to TJGringo.com.