Latin American tourism sector development initiatives

Tourism authorities in Mexico, Chile, and Argentina have implemented various initiatives aimed at improving service standards, accessibility, and industry growth.

In Mexico, efforts have focused on digital tools, professional development, and regional marketing. The Secretary of Tourism, Josefina Rodríguez, has called on hotels nationwide to register in the free Hotel Classification System, a digital self-evaluation tool that assigns star ratings. Rodríguez stated the system “allows each hotel to showcase its strengths clearly and reliably, helping travelers make informed choices.”

In Tulum, training has expanded to include ‘emotional management’ and service quality for 230 taxi drivers and tourist police officers, an initiative organized by the state Secretariat of Tourism and the Mexican Association of Receptive Tourism Agencies (Amatur) to address service complaints. Further professionalization efforts are occurring in Puerto Morelos, where a master class titled ‘Creación de Experiencias Turísticas 2026’ was held to help operators transform natural assets like reefs and cenotes into branded experiences. Additionally, a delegation from Yucatán is preparing for IBTM Americas 2026 in Mexico City to promote the state within the meetings and conventions industry.

In Chile, the National Tourism Service (Sernatur) introduced an Initial Commitment to Accessible Tourism at the Hotel Almasur. Director Cristóbal Benítez noted the commitment “helps highlight hotels and restaurants that advance accessibility, making tourism inclusive for people with disabilities, families with children, pregnant women, older adults, and anyone with temporary mobility limitations.”

Meanwhile, in Argentina, the Expo Turismo & Negocio in La Rioja facilitated business connections through rounds and agreements involving international participants from Brazil, Chile, and Uruguay.