Mexico Has Everything to Become a Tourism Power, Leaders Say at Acapulco Fair

Acapulco, Guerrero — Mexico has all the ingredients to become a global tourism powerhouse but cannot afford to be complacent, the president of the National Tourism Business Council (CNET) said Monday at the opening of the 50th edition of the Tianguis Turistico.

Antonio Cosío urged stronger public-private partnerships, increased promotion, and improved security to unlock the sector’s full potential.

“To grow national and international tourism, we need to advance a comprehensive and concrete agenda: stronger and more strategic tourism promotion, streamlined migration procedures, greater air connectivity, security in destinations, and the intelligent use of technology,” Cosío said.

The business leader had to read his speech by flashlight after a power outage darkened the forum for 11 minutes.

Cosío emphasized that the primary goal should be generating greater value from international visitors to boost economic impact.

“Yes, we want more tourists, but they must be high-value tourists. That’s why it’s essential to strengthen air travel and develop higher-value products for that segment,” he added.

Tourism Secretary Josefina Rodríguez and Interior Secretary Rosa Icela Rodríguez also spoke at the inauguration, both affirming that the tourism sector has full support from the executive branch.