The tourism sector in Mexico continues to set the trend as one of the main drivers of job creation. From January to September 2024, more than 4.9 million people found employment in this industry, consolidating itself as a key pillar of the labor market and surpassing the levels recorded before the pandemic.
The Ministry of Tourism noted that, while growth is indisputable, with 137,522 new jobs compared to 2023 and an increase of 40,695 workers compared to the second quarter of 2024, the question arises: what kind of jobs is the sector offering? For the most part, the opportunities are in services, with working conditions that vary between formal and informal.
Historic but uneven recovery
The third quarter of 2024 marks a milestone by exceeding pre-pandemic figures by 9.2%, with 414,191 more people employed than in the first quarter of 2020. However, not all regions of the country have seen this rebound uniformly. Traditional tourist destinations, such as Cancun and Los Cabos, account for much of the growth, while less developed areas still face significant challenges in attracting visitors and generating sustainable jobs.
The increase in employment is not only a response to a greater arrival of tourists, but also to changes in the industry. Digital platforms, alternative accommodations, and personalized experiences have created new job opportunities, but also challenges in terms of regulation and job stability.
Although the numbers are encouraging, it is crucial to analyze how these opportunities are contributing to the well-being of workers. The professionalization of the sector and the improvement in working conditions will be essential to ensure that this growth is truly sustainable.
Tourism in Mexico remains a sector with enormous potential, but its long-term success will depend on how new market demands are integrated and the benefits are distributed equitably throughout the country.
Keys to understanding employment in the tourism sector:
Historical Growth of Tourism Employment: From January to September 2024, the tourism sector employed more than 4.9 million people, exceeding pre-pandemic levels by 9.2% with 414,191 additional jobs compared to the first quarter of 2020.
New Opportunities in Services and Alternative Tourism: Most of the jobs generated are in the services sector, driven by digital platforms, alternative accommodations and personalized experiences that diversify the labor market.
Sustained Employment Growth: Compared to 2023, 137,522 new jobs were created, while in the third quarter of 2024, 40,695 additional workers were added compared to the previous quarter.
Regional Inequality in Growth: Destinations such as Cancun and Los Cabos are leading the recovery of tourism employment, while other regions face challenges in attracting tourists and generating sustainable opportunities. DJ
Source: ejecentral
