Mexico recorded the strongest Travel& Tourism performance in North America during 2025, leading the region in sector growth, international visitor spending and international arrivals, according to new WTTC research.
Mexico recorded the strongest Travel & Tourism performance in North America in 2025, outperforming both the United States and Canada across key indicators including tourism GDP growth, international visitor spending and international arrivals, according to new Economic Impact Research from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).
The latest research, sponsored by Chase Travel, shows that Mexico’s Travel & Tourism GDP increased by 1.8% in 2025, ahead of Canada at 1.2% and the United States at 0.9%. Although growth in the United States moderated, it remains the world’s largest Travel & Tourism economy.
Mexico also led the region in international visitor spending growth, recording an increase of 3.5% during 2025. In contrast, international visitor spending declined by 4.6% in the United States and by 3.5% in Canada.
International arrivals to Mexico increased by 6.1% over the same period, while arrivals declined by 5.5% in the United States and by 0.6% in Canada.
At a global level, WTTC forecasts Travel & Tourism will contribute US$12 trillion to the world economy in 2026, representing 9.9% of global GDP, while supporting 376 million jobs worldwide.
Over the next decade, global Travel & Tourism GDP is expected to grow at an average annual rate of 3.6%, outpacing the wider global economy, which is projected to grow by 2.4% annually.
According to the research, North America’s Travel & Tourism sector continues to benefit from strong domestic demand and relatively limited exposure to geopolitical disruptions linked to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. The region is less dependent on affected transit routes and source markets than many other parts of the world.
Looking ahead, the FIFA World Cup is expected to provide a significant boost to tourism growth across North America in 2026. WTTC forecasts Travel & Tourism GDP growth of 6.4% in Canada, 2.4% in Mexico and 2.1% in the United States.
The research indicates that the FIFA World Cup represents an important opportunity to strengthen long-term tourism growth through improved connectivity, enhanced visitor experiences and increased cross-border cooperation.
WTTC also highlighted the importance of continued investment in aviation, tourism infrastructure, digital innovation and streamlined visitor entry processes to support the region’s competitiveness and future growth.
The organisation noted that sustained focus on connectivity, destination infrastructure and visitor experience will be important in consolidating Mexico’s position as North America’s leading tourism growth market.
Gloria Guevara, President and CEO of WTTC, said: “North America’s Travel & Tourism sector continues to demonstrate resilience and strong long-term potential, supported by robust domestic demand and sustained investment across the region. Mexico’s performance in 2025 clearly shows the strength of its tourism sector and its growing competitiveness on the global stage.
The FIFA World Cup presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity for North America to accelerate tourism growth, strengthen connectivity, and showcase the region to millions of travellers worldwide. This international event is a chance to capitalize on the long-term benefits it provides.”
According to WTTC’s latest projections, Travel & Tourism is expected to support 30.9 million jobs across North America in 2026, accounting for 12.7% of total employment in the region.