BTS is Single-Handedly Forcing Ticketing Reforms in Mexico

Photo Credit: Mexico City by Oscar Reygo

Mexico’s Consumer Protection Agency sets new guidelines for ticket sales, so fans know the exact prices of seats acquired through digital platforms.

After BTS’ chaotic run of shows in Mexico, the country’s Federal Consumer Protection Agency (PROFECO) is setting a new series of guidelines to regulate the sale of tickets for major events in Mexico to ensure attendees know the exact prices and nature of seats purchased through digital platforms.

PROFECO head Ivan Escalante reported in a press conference that the regulations being reworked will require ticketing companies to transparently inform at least 24 hours in advance of the first sale, details including places, dates, times, artists, and a map of the venue with sections and number of available seats clearly marked.

Regulations will also require the total price per section to be transparent and fixed—not increasing at the time of purchase. In the event of cancellations, companies must inform consumers of the refund process. Companies also must notify organizers of any changes to the event conditions at least 24 hours in advance.

The pre-selection of additional services is also prohibited. Any additional services must be strictly optional and not a requirement for ticket purchase, such as with VIP packages.

These guidelines were announced in the wake of sales to the Mexico leg of South Korean superstar group BTS’ world tour, over which PROFECO maintains that Ticketmaster violated Mexican law in the “irregularities” present in the sale of those tickets. PROFECO said it received around 5,000 emails and multiple hotline complaints about those irregularities and price changes.

To that end, Escalante said Ticketmaster was notified on February 11 and had until February 17 to present its arguments before the authority will determine the administrative resolution and accompanying fine. Escalante said the proceedings against Ticketmaster were “due to a lack of clarity in the information provided to consumers.” Escalante added that digital reseller companies, such as StubHub and Viagogo, were also contacted to ensure they adjust their services to comply with Mexican regulations.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said during her Monday press conference that approximately 1 million young Mexicans wanted to attend the BTS shows, but “there are only 150,000 tickets.” She added that she wrote a letter to South Korean Prime Minister Kim Min-seok to request that BTS come to Mexico more often.