Quintana Roo has long stood as a sun-drenched symbol of Mexico’s prosperity. For Texans, its turquoise beaches and glittering resorts have become not only a favorite vacation escape, but also a major site of investment. From real estate and tourism to large-scale infrastructure projects, the economic ties between Texas and Quintana Roo run deep.
But a new report from the US Mexico Investment Council warns that the dream is beginning to fray. In 2024, Quintana Roo received over $900 million in foreign direct investment, a large portion of which originated from Texas. Cancun remains the top international route from Dallas-Fort Worth, and Cozumel leads the Caribbean in cruise arrivals. Yet what was once seen as a low-risk destination has become a case study in institutional fragility.
The report outlines a troubling mix of legal uncertainty, political interference, and worsening public safety. From unlawful asset seizures and politicized courts to a surge in violent crime and extortion, Quintana Roo is no longer just a tropical playground—it’s becoming a cautionary tale. Texan investors and tourists are increasingly finding themselves vulnerable in a place where legal guarantees can evaporate, and basic rights may be overlooked.
The warning signs are clear. Tulum now holds the highest homicide rate in the country. Cancun saw a 233% increase in kidnappings. American tourists have been jailed over minor disputes without due process. Businesses report arbitrary closures, raids, and regulatory harassment. Investors like Vulcan Materials and Airbnb hosts have been targeted through legal maneuvers that blur the line between oversight and expropriation.
Texan pensions and retirement funds are directly and indirectly invested in Quintana Roo through private equity and real estate portfolios. That means this isn’t just about spring breakers or beach houses; it’s about safeguarding retirement savings. To be clear, this is a call to assess risk with open eyes. American travelers and investors should understand that while the beaches remain inviting, the underlying conditions are changing. Local governments have shown a willingness to bypass courts, bend the rules, and use public power for private agendas.
The report urges U.S. officials, especially those in Texas, to treat the situation seriously. Diplomatic pressure, investment protections, and stronger transparency requirements are needed to avoid a deeper erosion of trust. Quintana Roo is too important to ignore—but it’s also too risky to take for granted. When paradise comes with fine print, Texans deserve to read it closely.
Click here to review the report.