Home » MEXICO TRAVEL NEWS » How Mexican Tourists Are Bolstering Retail in El Paso and Laredo: A Lifeline for U.S. Border Cities Amid a Declining Global Tourism Trend
Published on
November 18, 2025
As global tourism faces challenges and declines in many regions, one source of light shines through: visitors from Mexico. Heading into the 2025 holiday season, Mexico stands out as a vital tourism source for the United States, particularly for Texas. While other countries see sharp drops in tourism, the border states of the U.S., like Texas, Arizona, and California, continue to see steady streams of visitors, particularly those from Mexico. These travelers cross over to enjoy holiday shopping, visit family, and explore the bustling markets and malls that line the U.S.-Mexico border. This influx of Mexican shoppers has become an important economic driver, especially for shopping centres such as the Outlet Shoppes in El Paso, which depend on cross-border retail tourism.
Mexican Tourism Keeps Texas Retailers Thriving
Despite a general decline in international tourism to the U.S. in 2025, Mexican tourists have become a crucial lifeline for Texas retailers, especially during the holiday season. With many people from Mexico eager to cross the border for shopping and family visits, the holiday season promises a steady flow of consumers into the state’s outlet malls, shopping centres, and tourist attractions. For border cities like El Paso and Laredo, visitors from Mexico have long been an essential component of their economic stability.
The numbers speak volumes: by August 2025, about 3 million visitors arrived by air from Mexico, while land border crossings saw a 13% increase. This influx is expected to grow further with the onset of the holiday season. Shoppers often make the trip in large groups, taking advantage of the excellent deals and seasonal discounts available at major malls in Texas.
Border Cities Reap the Benefits of Mexican Shoppers
In border cities like El Paso, Laredo, and San Diego, Mexican shoppers are critical to retail success. According to market experts, about 65% of weekend shoppers in some of El Paso’s busiest malls come from Mexico. Shoppers often make the journey in SUVs packed with family members, eager to purchase gifts and holiday decorations. In addition to regular shopping, the holiday spirit is amplified by festive events such as Christmas light displays and visits to Santa in bilingual settings.
The impact of Mexican shoppers on local businesses is undeniable, with the Christmas shopping season representing a critical period for many stores, especially those catering to the cross-border traffic. Retailers anticipate a boost in sales, with events such as bilingual Santa photos and winter wonderland experiences drawing in shoppers from both sides of the border.
Visa Challenges: Rising Costs and Scrutiny
Despite the growing number of Mexican visitors, travel restrictions and visa hurdles remain a challenge for many. The Trump administration’s policies have led to higher visa fees, making it more expensive for Mexicans to visit the United States. Visa costs jumped from $185 to $435 earlier this year, which has deterred some potential travelers. Additionally, new visa integrity fees and the requirement for in-person interviews for visa renewals have increased the complexity of the process.
The long wait times for visa approvals, particularly in Ciudad Juarez, where the U.S. Consulate is one of the busiest in the world, have added another layer of difficulty for many. Despite these challenges, many visitors continue to make the effort, knowing the economic benefits of shopping in the United States and visiting relatives outweigh the costs.
The Power of Holiday Shopping in Border Towns
For many in Mexico, the holiday season is a time to celebrate with family, and cross-border shopping is a cherished tradition. Malls such as the Outlet Shoppes of El Paso are ready to cater to this influx, offering unique holiday experiences like snow machines, holiday-themed events, and exclusive promotions. In fact, for many Mexicans, making the trip to the U.S. is as much about creating memories with loved ones as it is about spending money.
The bustling atmosphere of these shopping malls draws in tourists not only for the goods but for the experience of enjoying the U.S. holiday culture. It’s a unique blend of shopping, family bonding, and celebrating the season that keeps visitors coming back year after year.
Holiday Travel Tips for Mexican Tourists Heading to the U.S.
For Mexican tourists planning to visit the U.S. during the holiday season, here are some essential travel tips:
Start visa applications early: The visa approval process can take time, especially with the new in-person interview requirements. Apply well in advance to ensure you have everything in place for your trip.Be prepared for higher costs: The visa fees and border crossing costs may increase, so it’s important to budget accordingly. Keep track of the latest fee structures and requirements.Expect crowds: The holiday season brings in a large number of visitors, especially in cities like El Paso and Laredo. Plan for crowded malls and longer wait times at customs.Make shopping plans: If you’re headed to U.S. malls like the Outlet Shoppes, be sure to take advantage of holiday sales and seasonal discounts. These centres often offer special deals that are not available year-round.Consider family-friendly activities: Many U.S. cities, including El Paso, host special events for children, such as photos with Santa or holiday parades, so make sure to include them in your travel plans for a memorable experience.Mexican Tourism Helps Revive U.S. Economy Amid Global Decline
In a year marked by a decline in international tourism, visitors from Mexico have provided a vital source of income for businesses along the border. Retailers in Texas, especially those in El Paso and Laredo, rely heavily on these shoppers to maintain their sales figures. Tourism experts suggest that without these Mexican visitors, U.S. shopping malls and businesses would have experienced even sharper declines in holiday revenues.
The influx of Mexican tourists isn’t just about shopping; it’s about the strong cultural ties and economic exchanges that have existed for generations. As restrictions continue to increase, however, it will be interesting to see how Mexican tourism to the U.S. evolves in the coming years, especially during peak seasons like Christmas.
