Mexico Tourism Board Expands Presence with New Office in Washington, D.C.

Strengthening Tourism Ties in the Northeast

Eduardo Chaillo, an experienced member of the MTB with a history of leading the Mexico Convention Bureau and directing promotional activities in the U.S. and Canada, will spearhead the Washington, D.C. office. This initiative is a direct response to the growing demand from the northeast region of the United States, which is recognized for its high population density and significant per-capita income. The northeast is a vital source of international tourists for Mexico.

Washington, D.C. is not only a political hub but also a center for numerous travel associations, government entities, and chambers of commerce. The proximity to the Mexican Embassy further underscores the strategic importance of the MTB's presence in the city.

Focusing on Diverse Tourism Segments

While the new office will promote various aspects of Mexico's tourism, including its renowned beaches, natural landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, there will be a special focus on the meetings and conventions sector. The U.S. business travel market, valued at approximately $122 billion by the Convention Industry Council, presents a significant opportunity for growth. Currently, only 12.5 percent of U.S. corporate meetings and conventions take place in Mexico. However, the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) noted that out of the 300,000 conventions it registered last year, 30 percent of organizers showed interest in hosting events in Mexico.

Expansion on the West Coast

In tandem with the opening in Washington, D.C., the MTB's West Coast office in Los Angeles will also see an expansion. Francisco Lopez Mena, CEO of the Mexico Tourism Board, highlighted the West Coast as the most crucial U.S. tourism feeder market for Mexico, with over 2.4 million international tourists in 2006 alone.

Increased Budget for Promotional Activities

The MTB's promotional initiatives, including the new office, will be supported by a budget of 1.61 billion pesos (about $150 million), marking a 40 percent increase from the previous year. This boost in funding stems from a recent legislative change that raised the MTB's allocation from the International Tourist Tax (DNI) from 50 to 70 percent.

About the Mexico Tourism Board

The MTB is a collaborative effort between federal and state governments, municipalities, and the private sector, working together to promote Mexico's diverse tourism offerings on an international stage. Since its inception in 1999, the MTB has been the nation's primary agency for tourism promotion, with a network of offices across North America, Europe, Asia, and Latin America.

Chichen-Itza: A Contender for the New Seven World Wonders

Chichen-Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998, is in the running to be named one of the new Seven World Wonders by the Swiss-based New7Wonders Foundation. This ancient Mayan city is one of the most significant archaeological sites in Mexico and a testament to the Mayan civilization's historical grandeur. Supporters can cast their vote for Chichen-Itza at www.new7wonders.com.

For press inquiries, travel tips, or additional tourism information about Mexico, the MTB's North American Press Room can be reached at 1-800-929-4555, via email at northamericanpress@visitmexico.com, or through their press website at www.visitmexicopress.com. High-quality, downloadable b-roll footage is available at www.thenewsmarket.com/visitmexicopress.

Contact: Erick Laseca Mexico Tourism Board 312-228-0517 ext14 erick.laseca@bm.com www.visitmexicopress.com