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World Cup 2026 poised to boost Mexico’s restaurant industry

  • 15th January 2026

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is widely seen as a key opportunity to drive the recovery and growth of Mexico’s restaurant industry. The National Association of Food and Beverage Industries (CANIRAC) predicts that, driven by the World Cup and the spillover effects of tourism, the industry’s annual growth rate is expected to approach 5% in 2026, with food and beverage consumption becoming an important part of tourist spending.The Mexican Association of Restaurants (AMR) points out that restaurant sales in host cities such as Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey could increase by up to 15% during the World Cup. Mexico will host 13 matches, including the knockout stages, making the tournament one of the most important windows to boost restaurant demand in recent years.

Previously, the catering industry had been under long-term pressure from the impact of the pandemic, economic slowdown, high inflation, and rising costs. The industry’s actual growth rate in 2025 was only 1.8%, significantly lower than the original expectation of 5%. Raw material prices rose by more than 30%, while menu prices saw limited increases, continuously squeezing companies’ profit margins.

To amplify the economic spillover effects of the World Cup, the industry is collaborating with tourism authorities to guide tourists from the host city to surrounding areas and unique travel routes, thereby boosting the catering and local economies nationwide. Simultaneously, food delivery platforms are being integrated into the World Cup consumption system, helping restaurants develop exclusive menus tailored to the viewing experience and expanding non-dine-in revenue.

In terms of human capital, CANIRAC launched the “Habla Mundial” English training program to enhance the international service capabilities of catering staff. This program, which strengthens tourist trust through low-cost certification and standardized signage, is seen as a key initiative to improve service quality during the World Cup and enhance the industry’s long-term competitiveness.

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MEXCHAM continues building bridges between Mexico and China.

中国墨西哥商会将继续作为墨西哥与中国之间的桥梁,不断努力。

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(MEXCHAM)中国墨西哥商会

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