Investing in Guatemala
With an average GDP growth between 2015 and 2024 of 3.7%, the tourism sector accounted for 3% of the country’s GDP in 2023
"Guatemala is emerging as an ideal destination for tourism investment, thanks to its sustained economic growth, its rich cultural and natural heritage, and its commitment to sustainability. With a favourable legal framework and a focus on cultural and nature tourism, the country offers unique opportunities for projects with a positive impact."
Zurab Pololikashvili,
UN Tourism Secretary-General
“With an average GDP growth of 3.7% in the last decade and a favourable fiscal environment, Guatemala is positioned as a prime target for strategic investment, which stands out in terms of sustainable tourism and diversified economic opportunities.”
Natalia Bayona,
Executive Director, UN Tourism
TOURISM DOING BUSINESS INVESTING IN GUATEMALA
Guatemala, with its diversified economy and rich cultural and natural offerings, stands out as a promising destination for foreign investment in tourism. With a population of close to 17.6 million and economic growth of 3.5% in 2023, the country offers stability and opportunities for projects with a positive impact. Its location in the heart of Central America provides access to key markets in North America and Latin America, increasing its attractiveness to investors.
Economic outlook
With an average GDP growth between 2015 and 2024 of 3.7%, the tourism sector accounted for 3% of the country’s GDP in 2023.
International tourism in Guatemala reached record figures in 2023, with 2.65 million visitors generating 1.349 billion dollars in receipts and exceeding pre-pandemic levels. This growth highlights the resilience of the sector and its significant contribution to the national economy, with an average daily expenditure per tourist of USD 101.87.
Furthermore, it should be noted that Guatemala has prioritized tourism in its National Strategy for the Attraction of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) under implementation from 2024 to 2027, with an FDI goal of USD 1.9 billion million by 2027.
In addition, the country's favourable fiscal and legal framework makes it attractive for sustainable investments, standing out in segments such as cultural, nature, and adventure tourism.
Investment overview
In 2023, Guatemala received USD 1.552 billion in FDI and showed a recovery compared to previous years. Although it is not the main recipient of FDI in tourism in Central America, it has positioned itself well in the region.
Between 2018 and 2023, Guatemala attracted two greenfield projects in tourism, with an announced investment of USD 179 million, surpassing other nearby countries in the region.
Value proposition
Guatemala presents itself as a strategic destination for investment in tourism thanks to its unique combination of natural and cultural wealth and economic opportunities.
The country has been globally recognized as a megadiverse country, with 32% of its territory under protected status, while boasting natural treasures such as Lake Atitlán and the Maya Biosphere Reserve. It is precisely this Mayan heritage that bestowed the country with more than 3,000 archaeological sites and the living traditions of 22 Mayan peoples.
In addition, it has unique potential in sport fishing and volcanic tourism experiences, with 37 volcanoes, including the highest in Central America, Tajumulco.
Its economic stability is also noteworthy, thanks to exchange rate stability and solid international reserves, as well as its growth prospects, with GDP rising an average of 3.7% between 2015 and 2024.
Green investments
Guatemala has a favourable environment for green investment, as exemplified by its Emissions Reduction Programme and resilient projects in the Dry Corridor, highlighting its commitment to sustainable tourism and attracting investors interested in the integration of economic and environmental development.
Thanks to all these initiatives, Guatemala is reasserting itself as a model for sustainable tourism development in the region, offering an ideal environment for investments that value sustainability, innovation and social impact.