Mexico Aims for UN Tourism Board Seat

Mexico City — On the occasion of World Tourism Day, the Confederation of National Chambers of Commerce, Services and Tourism (CONCANACO SERVYTUR MEXICO) reaffirmed its commitment to the development of this strategic sector, which drives family well-being, generates employment, and strengthens family-owned businesses and enterprises, considered the foundation of the national economy.

CONCANACO SERVYTUR is currently a member of UN Tourism, the international body that brings together the sector's main actors at a global level. The Confederation is seeking a place on the UN Tourism executive board, which would give a voice to Mexico and its family-owned businesses in the decision-making that guides global tourism policy.

The President of the Confederation, Dr. Octavio de la Torre de Stéffano, stated that "tourism is a bridge of understanding between cultures, a generator of employment, and a pillar of the Mexican economy. From CONCANACO SERVYTUR, we seek not only to consolidate traditional destinations but also to promote those lesser-known sites that reflect the cultural, historical, and natural wealth of Mexico."

Tourism, Engine of the Mexican Economy

Data from INEGI, SECTUR, and the Bank of Mexico underscore the relevance of this activity:

• Mexico is the sixth most visited country in the world.
• Tourism contributes 8.6% of the national GDP, equivalent to 2.6 trillion pesos.
• It generates more than 5 million jobs, being the primary employer of youth and the second-largest employer of women.
• It is the country's third-largest export activity.
• One out of every ten people who left poverty did so thanks to tourism.

Tourism is also a key actor in international trade, attracting foreign visitors who generate foreign exchange, boosting production, investment, and employment.

Boost for the 'Plan Mexico' and the National Tourism Positioning Strategy

The vision to strengthen the sector is articulated within the 'Plan Mexico' and the National Tourism Positioning Strategy, backed by President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo and the Secretary of Tourism, Josefina Rodríguez Zamora, in coordination with the country's family-owned businesses and enterprises.

Among its objectives are:

• Strengthening the promotion of Mexico abroad.
• Diversifying the tourist offering with routes and experiences in emerging communities.
• Guaranteeing direct benefits for families and local businesses.

Dr. De la Torre emphasized that "integrating the UN Tourism executive board will be the opportunity to show the world Mexico's capacity to innovate and lead in tourism matters, with an inclusive, sustainable, and humane vision."

CONCANACO SERVYTUR emphasized that the future of the sector is built with sustainability, equity, and resilience, recalling that tourism transforms lives, opens opportunities, and strengthens the pride and identity of Mexico.