Josefina Rodríguez Zamora reported that, in the second quarter of 2026, the tourism sector employed 5,067,000 people—equivalent to 9.3 percent of national employment—marking the highest figure on record.
Mexico’s Secretary of Tourism, Josefina Rodríguez Zamora, reported that, in the second quarter of 2026, the tourism sector employed 5,067,000 people—equivalent to 9.3 percent of national employment—marking the highest figure on record.
“The fact that more than 5 million people find job opportunities in tourism today speaks to the importance of this activity for Mexico. We are building a sector that opens doors, builds capacity, and helps ensure that benefits reach more people and communities,” she stated.
Tourism in Mexico is distinguished by its warm beaches and rich history—most notably Chichén Itzá, one of the New 7 Wonders of the World, which attracts tourists from across the globe.
Further details
Based on the National Survey of Occupation and Employment (ENOE) from the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI), the Secretary of Tourism reported an annual increase of 78,550 employed persons in the tourism sector between April and June 2026, representing 1.6 percent growth compared to the same period in 2025.
In a quarterly comparison, tourism employment rose by 0.9 percent relative to the first quarter of 2026—an increase of 45,090 employed persons—maintaining a positive trend throughout the period.
Rodríguez Zamora particularly highlighted the participation of women in the sector, noting that they accounted for 54 percent of tourism employment, while men made up 46 percent. He added that tourism is a tool for women to develop their skills, gain experience, and build new possibilities for their future, particularly in communities where tourism represents a significant source of opportunities.
“We want more women to find an opportunity in tourism to grow, learn, and demonstrate everything they are capable of achieving. This is a time for women, and for continuing to create opportunities so that their talent translates into well-being for themselves, their families, and their communities,” he stated.