Grupo Xcaret was invited to speak at the “Senior Officials Meeting III – Workshop on Heritage Planning for Sustainable Tourism,” organized by the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum and held in Incheon, South Korea, on July 26–27 of this year. Its participation marks a milestone, as it was the only private-sector company from Latin America invited to this international dialogue on tourism and heritage.
The forum brought together government representatives, civil society organizations, academics, and multilateral bodies from APEC member economies. The goal was to identify joint solutions for preserving natural and cultural heritage in tourist destinations while ensuring sustainable social benefits for host communities.
Grupo Xcaret was invited to participate in this edition due to its leadership in designing tourism experiences deeply rooted in Mexico’s biocultural richness. The company’s participation included a presentation by Iliana Rodríguez Cavazos, Director of Sustainability and Institutional Dialogue at Grupo Xcaret, who remarked: “We are very pleased that the work Grupo Xcaret has done regarding Mexico’s natural and cultural heritage has placed us on the stage alongside APEC member countries. We share best practices in cultural and natural heritage, highlighting our focus on the well-being of local communities.”
Grupo Xcaret’s holistic approach—balancing heritage conservation with economic development and community engagement—has garnered international attention, particularly as an initiative driven by the private sector.
During the working sessions, participants discussed the many challenges global tourism regions face in protecting cultural and natural heritage amidst rising demand. Key insights emerging from both the working sessions and presentations emphasized the importance of the well-being of local communities and the creation of shared prosperity.
Genuine community inclusion is essential for fostering shared well-being and ensuring the long-term sustainability of projects. Grupo Xcaret’s presence in this international arena bears witness to its leadership in building a sustainable tourism model, reaffirming its purpose: “to make the planet happier by sharing our great love for Mexico.”