Although homicides in Quintana Roo have seen a significant decline in recent months, other crimes—particularly corruption—have risen, raising concerns among the state’s business community.
This warning came from María Jovita Portillo Navarro, president of Coparmex Cancún, who noted that the drop in homicides should not be interpreted as an overall improvement in security and the rule of law.
According to the business leader, the monthly homicide rate fell from 2 cases to 0.3; however, this reduction stands in contrast to the increase in other crimes that directly impact business operations.
She highlighted corruption as one of the primary issues currently facing businesses in the state. Data from Coparmex Cancún indicates that approximately 30% of member companies report having been affected by acts of corruption.
This situation creates additional costs and legal uncertainty while undermining organizational competitiveness—particularly in a state where the economy relies heavily on tourism and foreign investment.
Portillo Navarro explained that while authorities have emphasized the reduction in homicides, the business sector views the rise in corrupt practices with concern.
“That is precisely what I was hearing from the secretariat: that crime has decreased—but specifically regarding homicides,” she noted. Nationally, more than 9 million people fell victim to corruption over the past year, according to figures cited by the business leader.
Furthermore, it is estimated that nearly 99% of acts of corruption faced by companies go unreported, reflecting a lack of trust in institutions and a fear of potential reprisals.
In response to this situation, Coparmex Cancún has stepped up training programs for its members, aiming to foster a culture of regulatory compliance and prevent irregular practices.
“Corruption requires two parties, and that is what we are addressing within the business sector,” Portillo Navarro stated.
Source: eleconomista
