Mexican meetings industry poised for 8-11% growth in 2026

Mexico's meetings industry is experiencing a robust recovery and projected growth, with an estimated 8% to 11% expansion expected in 2026. This sector, a significant contributor to the national economy at approximately 1.5% of GDP and a generator of over a million direct and indirect jobs, is bouncing back from the severe impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020, the industry suffered a drastic 58% decline in average revenue compared to pre-pandemic levels.

Industry experts note that the sector's activity was virtually halted during the strict lockdowns of 2020. A gradual reactivation began in 2021, but it took until 2023 for operational levels to fully recover to pre-pandemic standards. This recovery has been fueled by a strategic shift towards technological innovation, enhanced training, and new business models.

Speakers México, a specialized agency, has adapted to evolving market demands. While the company now organizes fewer corporate conferences, around 200 annually compared to nearly 380 before the pandemic, it has shifted its focus from volume to high-specialization and added-value events. "We now sell specialists that you will hardly find on social media or via WhatsApp. These are profiles whose knowledge has greater value for companies," stated Luis Valls, director of Speakers México.

Furthermore, companies are optimizing costs by favoring shorter events in nearby destinations with fewer in-person attendees, leveraging online streaming for broader reach. This strategic adaptation has helped Mexico maintain its position, ranking 21st globally and fourth in the Americas in the International Congress and Convention Association's 2025 World Ranking.

“

We now sell specialists that you will hardly find on social media or via WhatsApp. These are profiles whose knowledge has greater value for companies.