Mexico bolsters its dominance in the attractions sector, boasting an annual impact of 7.8 billion, maintaining its second position in the market.
Mexico's vibrant entertainment industry is making waves, solidifying its position as a significant player in Latin America and beyond. With an annual economic impact of 7,800 million dollars, it's clear that this sector is a driving force in the country's economy and cultural projection.
The Global Association for the Attractions Industry (IAAPA) has emphasised the strategic role of parks, aquariums, zoos, museums, and entertainment centers in Mexico's growth. Notable examples of local creativity turning into global projections include Xcaret, which integrates biodiversity and Mexican history, and KidZania, a concept created in Mexico with international presence.
The past six months have seen the addition of new attractions, expanding Mexico's tourism options. These include the Nickelodeon Riviera Maya theme park, Cirque du Soleil JOYÀ in Riviera Maya, the La Gran Rueda Cancún (Cancún Great Wheel), and other attractions like Ventura Park and the Cancún Underwater Museum. These developments complement classic sites such as Chichén Itzá and Teotihuacán.
Dynamism is reflected in cultural tourism, with international visitor arrivals increasing by 8.5% in the first half of the year. This sector now registers over 74.5 million visitors and sustains over 180,800 jobs, of which 139,700 are direct.
IAAPA members include theme parks such as Grupo Xcaret, Six Flags Mexico, Hurricane Harbor Oaxtepec, Kataplum, Guadalajara Zoo, Animal Kingdom, and Africam Safari. Among the most recent projects are water parks Lu’um Ha in Chiapas and Beraka Splash in Morelos, entertainment centers Playtica in Mazatlán, BattleKart in Cancún, Fly Extreme Sports Park in Metepec, and Balam Balam Felinario in Yucatan.
Mundo Charro is preparing for its opening in Hidalgo, focusing on Mexican culture. Paulina Reyes, Vice President of IAAPA for Latin America, Caribbean, and North America, stated that attractions benefit tourism, gastronomy, hotels, and services, consolidating them as a pillar of Mexico's economic and social development.
The attraction "Fly Mexico Around the World" premiered at Aztlán Urban Park. IAAPA predicts that new investments, innovation in experiences, and strengthening of cultural identity will keep Mexico as a main entertainment destination.
The arrival of Hernán Bermúdez Requena in Mexico today, after being expelled from Paraguay, may not directly impact the entertainment sector, but the appointment of José Antonio Fernández Garza-Lagüera as the new CEO of FEMSA could potentially influence the industry's future trajectory.
In conclusion, Mexico's entertainment sector is thriving, offering a rich cultural experience while driving economic growth. With over 20 new parks and attractions added in the first half of 2025 alone, it's an exciting time to explore this vibrant country.