CNTE Protests Cause MX$15 Billion Losses Nationwide

Protests by the National Coordinator of Education Workers (CNTE) have caused economic losses surpassing MX$15 billion (US$880 million) across Mexico, according to the Confederation of National Chambers of Commerce, Services, and Tourism (CONCANACO-SERVYTUR). In Mexico City, the National Chamber of Commerce (CANACO-CDMX) estimates losses of at least MX$168 million (US$9.8 million) since the protests began on May 15.

The CNTE demands a 100% salary increase and the repeal of the 2007 ISSSTE pension reform. After rejecting President Claudia Sheinbaum’s offer of a 10% raise plus an extra week of vacation, the group has threatened to disrupt judicial elections scheduled for Jun. 1 if their demands are unmet.

Sheinbaum responded, “We are offering a 9% wage increase retroactive to Jan. 1, with an additional 1% starting in September as recognition to teachers. We wish we could offer more.”

The economic impact stems mainly from business interruptions in major cities and blockades at critical infrastructure. Octavio De la Torre, President, CONCANACO-SERVYTUR, highlighted that family-owned businesses, which form the backbone of the economy, have been especially affected.

The worst-hit states include Mexico City, Oaxaca, Chiapas, Zacatecas, Guerrero, Chihuahua, Baja California Sur, and Yucatan. In Mexico City’s Historic Center, 30,000 businesses employing over 170,000 people have suffered losses, with about one million customers avoiding shops and restaurants daily.

Protests have also disrupted transportation and tourism. At Mexico City International Airport, demonstrations delayed access, impacting over 3,000 passengers and forcing 15 flight diversions. CANACO-CDMX reports that 35,000 to 40,000 local businesses have seen daily sales drop by 35% to 50%, particularly in tourism and artisanal sectors.

Vicente Gutiérrez, President, CANACO-CDMX, condemned the tactics: “The CNTE’s method has always been to escalate pressure until demands are met. We urge them to return to teaching, as the focus on education seems lost.”

Negotiations remain deadlocked. On May 28, CNTE representatives met with government officials but failed to reach an agreement. “The government offers only temporary relief and refuses to repeal the 2007 ISSSTE law,” said CNTE Section 22 representative Yenny Pérez.

De la Torre added, “While protest is a right, it should not come at the expense of community well-being or economic stability. Such actions risk undermining social trust and peace.”