Mexico Drops One Spot in Global Tourism Revenue Ranking

Mexico fell one position in the global ranking of countries by international tourism revenue in 2024, placing 16th with US$33 billion, according to updated data from UN Tourism. However, it retained its sixth place in international tourist arrivals, registering 45 million visitors last year.

Despite setting a record for foreign exchange earnings in 2024, Mexico's drop reflects a relative decline compared to 2023, when Thailand held the 16th position and has now climbed to 11th.

The Center for Advanced Research in Sustainable Tourism says that, while China continues to withhold official data on international tourist arrivals, Mexico remains sixth globally. Meanwhile, Japan hit the Top 10 for the first time this year.

2024 Tourism Update

In 2024, Mexico recorded an increase in international tourists, with a 7.4% rise in foreign visitors compared to the previous year, according to federal government data. President Claudia Sheinbaum celebrated the upward trend, stating that “Mexico is in fashion,” as the country continues to attract millions of travelers from around the world.

Data from INEGI shows that Mexico welcomed 45 million international tourists, defined as foreign residents who stayed at least one night in the country. In December alone, nearly 4.8 million international tourists entered Mexico, marking a 4.3% year-on-year increase. Additionally, over 4.3 million day-trippers visited without staying overnight.

Despite ongoing concerns surrounding Mexico’s international image, particularly regarding security and perceptions of organized crime, President Sheinbaum emphasized the country’s global appeal, rooted in its cultural richness and growing economic stability.