Mexico's Sheinbaum announces ecotourism-led protection plan for Mahahual

President Claudia Sheinbaum said the federal government will issue a special decree to protect the coastal town of Mahahual in Quintana Roo, aiming to develop a community‑based ecotourism model and prevent large‑scale tourist projects that could threaten local ecosystems. The announcement came on World Environment Day after the rejection of the “Perfect Day” resort proposal by Royal Caribbean and follows meetings with federal, state and local authorities and residents.

Semarnat secretary Alicia Bárcena clarified that the plan does not create a formal protected‑area designation; instead the goal is to foster “shared‑prosperity” tourism that keeps economic benefits within the community. She highlighted ongoing dialogue with fishing cooperatives, civil‑society groups and Mahahual inhabitants to shape the initiative. Quintana Roo Governor Mara Lezama also announced a state investment of about 1.975 billion pesos for infrastructure and urban improvements to support sustainable development.