Mexico City restaurants lose up to 40% sales amid CNTE protests during World Cup

Blockades by the Coordinadora Nacional de Trabajadores de la Educación (CNTE) in Mexico City have disrupted traffic and deliveries, affecting roughly 1,000 restaurants. Industry groups report sales drops of up to 40% over a week, with empty tables, cancelled reservations, staff unable to reach work, lost tips and spoiled food. The sector, which employs more than 20,000 workers in the capital, says the protests add to existing pressures from inflation, higher taxes on sugary drinks, a 13% rise in the minimum wage and increased delivery platform fees.

The National Chamber of the Restaurant Industry (Canirac) estimates the 2026 FIFA World Cup could generate an additional $562.5 million in restaurant revenue and create about 39,000 temporary jobs, but officials do not expect this boost to fully offset the current losses caused by the demonstrations.