Quintana Roo, one of Mexico’s primary economic drivers, boasts a thriving tourism industry that attracts millions of visitors each year. Cities like Cancún, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum have become world-class tourist destinations, fueling growth in sectors such as hotels, gastronomy, tourism services, and commerce. Despite this, the state struggles with poverty, with over half its population living below the poverty line.
According to the 2023 Annual Report on Poverty and Social Backwardness, Quintana Roo’s economy has diversified beyond tourism, incorporating real estate, renewable energy, and technology projects. The establishment of special economic zones and incentive programs has facilitated business development, generating employment and promoting innovation.
However, the state’s wealth is concentrated among a few families, who control significant portions of the tourist industry. Some of these millionaire families include:
– The Zozaya Family, owners of AMResorts, which operates numerous properties in Quintana Roo, including those in the Riviera Maya, Cancún, and Cozumel.
– The Azcárraga Family, who control Grupo Posadas, a leading hospitality company with brands such as Live Aqua, Fiesta Americana Grand, Fiesta Americana, Fiesta Inn, and One. They plan to open 32 new hotels in the state, investing $287 million.
– The Chapur Family, owners of Grupo Palace Resorts, which operates over 7,700 rooms across its properties in Cancún, Riviera Maya, Punta Cana, and the Dominican Republic. They also own the Hard Rock Café.
– The Cosío Family, who manage Las Brisas, a collection of luxury hotels in the Mexican Caribbean, including the $170 million Nizuc Hotel.
– The Vela Family, owners of Grupo Velas, which operates some of the most luxurious properties in Latin America, with an estimated investment of $2 billion.
– Carlos Berdegué Sacristán, who owns El Cid Resorts, a chain of hotels in Cozumel and Puerto Morelos.
– Miguel Quintana Pali, manager of Experiencias Xcaret, a group that operates successful theme parks, including Xenotes and Xenses.
– Jorge Emilio González, whose family owns multimillion-dollar businesses throughout the country and has held various political positions in the state.
– Roberto Palazuelos, who owns several properties in tourist areas and is valued at $12 million according to Celebrity Net Worth.
These families have significant economic influence in Quintana Roo, controlling a large portion of the state’s wealth. Their businesses contribute to the region’s growth, but also raise questions about income inequality and concentration of power.
Source: La Silla Rota
