Sargassum crisis could lead to 30 percent drop in Mexico tourism
The Mexican government predicts tourism could fall by up to 30% due to the invasion of sargassum along the Riviera Maya coastline.
Quintana Roo is ground zero for the smelly seaweed which could hamper tourism in Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Morelos, Tulum, Cozumel and Isla Mujeres.
Up to a million tons of sargassum could tarnish the coastline.
"If the problem is not adequately contained the economy of the state and country will be at risk," said Cancún and Puerto Morelos Hotels Association president Roberto Cintron.
That will impact tourism taxes which could temporarily derail the Mayan Train project, he said.
"Quintana Roo attracts 50% of international tourists who arrive in the country, Fonatur depends on the non-resident tax that international tourists pay."
"The problem will grow to a national scale."
According to a Quintana Roo tourism official Arturo García, up to 40% of vacations in Mahahual have been canceled in recent days.
President López Obrador recently said the Mexican navy will spearhead cleanup efforts along the beaches and offshore.
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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