Trump's Travel Crackdown Has a Winner: Mexican Tourism

Mexico is positioning itself to capitalize on the 2026 World Cup as a major tourism driver, potentially benefiting from what the article describes as the “Trump effect.” Ahead of the tournament, officials and organizers projected 5.5 million visitors over the six-week event, generating billions in economic activity, though some critics questioned the estimate. The World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, will conclude on Sunday in Mexico City with Mexico’s national team playing England. The article says Mexico has become more accessible for travelers from certain countries, aiming to attract visitors who may face tougher entry to the United States under stricter U.S. immigration measures. Since Donald Trump took office in January 2025, travel to the U.S. has reportedly grown harder due to higher fees, visa barriers and sharper rhetoric. It cites UN tourism data showing U.S. visits down about 6% to 68 million, while Mexico logged a record 48 million overnight tourists, up 6%, and highlighted increased Canadian visitors. Mexican officials attribute the lift to being a “friendly country,” and note the tournament’s timing alongside shifting restrictions affecting other teams, including an Iranian base camp in Tijuana after U.S. limitations.