The CNTE Sit-In: An Economic Crisis in Oaxaca
The ongoing demonstrations by the Section 22 of the CNTE (National Coordination of Education Workers) in Oaxaca have reached a critical point, culminating in significant economic repercussions. As of June 2026, local businesses are facing staggering losses amounting to 2,500 million pesos since protests began on May 25. This equates to an alarming rate of 100 million pesos per day, with little indication of an immediate resolution.
Impact on Local Economy
Francisco Jorge Sánchez, a member of the board for the Established Merchants of Oaxaca Antequera, reported a dramatic 50% drop in commercial activity, severely impacting the area’s economic stability. Hotel occupancy rates have plummeted below 60%, exacerbating the financial strain on local businesses.
The protests have effectively paralyzed around 10,000 local businesses in the Historic Center of Oaxaca. Many establishments are unable to operate due to access being obstructed by tents and barricades erected by protesting teachers. Despite these challenges, business owners are still obligated to pay rents exceeding 50,000 pesos monthly.
Fuel Supply Disruptions
The ramifications of the protests extend beyond retail. The blockade of the Pemex Supply and Dispatch Terminal has led to the closure of at least 15 gas stations in the Central Valleys, with another 90 establishments at risk if the situation continues. This blockade prevents the exit of fuel trucks, further stressing local operations and staff.
The Business Community’s Response
José Rivera Espina, president of the Association of Business Leaders Promoting the Development of Oaxaca, noted that the city hosts between 35,000 and 55,000 businesses, both formal and informal, generating an economic output close to 205 million pesos each day. The ongoing blockades have drastically reduced customer foot traffic and, therefore, financial viability.
In response to these challenges, local business leaders are vociferously calling for governmental intervention. Unlike previous protests, Sánchez emphasized that neither state nor federal authorities have enacted support measures for micro, small, and medium enterprises, which are bearing the brunt of the economic fallout.
Calls for Action
The Citizen Council for Oaxaca has urged the state government to adopt responsible solutions, stressing that ignoring the situation while economic sectors absorb the losses is unacceptable. Merchants express empathy for the teachers’ struggle but implore Section 22 to reconsider their methods to minimize impact on the broader community.
Continued Protest Actions
Meanwhile, the CNTE teachers remain resolute, continuing their demonstrations along key routes, including the Oaxaca-Mexico highway and the Oaxaca International Airport. They assert that they will maintain pressure on the government until their demands related to wages and labor conditions are satisfactorily addressed.