Canirac Seeks to Open Tulum Delegation Amid Restaurant Closures
Cancún, Quintana Roo — The National Chamber of the Restaurant and Seasoned Food Industry (Canirac) in Cancún has begun the process of establishing a representation in Tulum, aiming to strengthen the gastronomic sector despite a wave of restaurant closures and job losses in the destination.
Canirac Cancún President Perla Flores said meetings with local restaurateurs are already underway to form the representation, a project that is part of the Renace Tulum plan to boost dining activity and promote the destination.
Flores explained that the first goal is to sign up at least 50 restaurants, a requirement set by the chamber’s statutes to formally constitute a representation and later consolidate it as a national delegation, similar to the one currently operating in Puerto Morelos.
The chamber leader acknowledged that the sector continues to face a decline in diner traffic, rising operating costs, and a roughly 20% drop in jobs during 2026. However, she noted that Tulum’s culinary recognition, including accolades from the Michelin Guide, represents an opportunity to accelerate economic recovery.
Laura Castillo covers tourism, business, and economic development across Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and the wider Riviera Maya for Riviera Maya News & Events. She tracks the region's most important business stories — from hotel investments and airline route expansions to real estate market trends and local economic policy — helping English-speaking readers stay informed about the economic pulse of Mexico's Caribbean coast.Laura has been reporting on Quintana Roo's tourism sector since 2020, closely monitoring developments in Cancun's hotel zone, Tulum's rapidly growing commercial corridor, and the evolving business landscape in Playa del Carmen. Her coverage includes corporate investments, employment trends, infrastructure projects, and the economic impact of events like sargassum seasons and hurricane preparation.Before joining Riviera Maya News & Events, Laura worked in business development and market analysis in the Riviera Maya region, giving her first-hand insight into how tourism, real estate, and local commerce intersect. She is fluent in English and Spanish.For story tips: laura@rivieramayanews.mx
