The Confederation of National Chambers of Commerce, Services, and Tourism (Concanaco Servytur) estimated on Friday that Mexico’s 2-0 victory over South Africa at the start of the 2026 World Cup generated an economic benefit exceeding 1.2 billion pesos (approximately $69.6 million) in the Mexican capital and areas linked to the tournament.
The organization attributed this spending to consumption in restaurants, hotels, bars, and shops, as well as transportation, souvenir sales, and local promotional events, according to a statement released after the opening match.
“Nationwide, the tournament could represent up to 65 billion pesos (nearly $3.768 billion) for the sector, provided that the opportunities also reach MSMEs (micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises) rather than being concentrated among large chains,” noted Octavio de la Torre, president of Concanaco Servytur.
The Confederation stated that businesses in the “last mile”—the area immediately surrounding the Mexico City stadium, better known as Estadio Azteca—opened their doors despite a drop in sales attributed to protests by the National Coordinator of Education Workers (CNTE).
Guided by the principle that “the most Mexican thing to do is work together,” the organization stated that it rolled out a simultaneous agenda across the country’s 32 states to link the World Cup celebration with community activities, local consumption, and tourism promotion.
Among these programs, it highlighted “Mundiales Muy Mexicanos” (Very Mexican World Cups), featuring sports activities and soccer ball giveaways in Quintana Roo and the State of Mexico; the “Mundialito Muy Moreliano” (Little World Cup in Morelia); and initiatives in Oaxaca and the Miguel Hidalgo borough of the Mexican capital.
It also cited campaigns such as “México de Mis Sabores / Itacate” (Mexico of My Flavors / Provisions), “Café Muy Mexicano” (Very Mexican Coffee), “Elige Vino Mexicano” (Choose Mexican Wine), “Casa Hecho en Oaxaca” (Made in Oaxaca House), and the “México en el Mundo” (Mexico in the World) presentation—all aimed at showcasing the country as a destination for investment, tourism, and local experiences. As part of that strategy, the organization announced that “La Gran Escapada, el Buen Fin del Turismo” (The Great Getaway: Tourism’s Big Sale Weekend) will take place from June 18 to 21, featuring promotions and tourism experiences nationwide and aiming for an economic impact exceeding 44 billion pesos (2.5507 billion dollars).
“We won 2–0 on the field; now it is time to win on the ground—in family businesses and communities,” concluded De la Torre.
Source: msn
