Mexico is demanding compensation from YouTuber MrBeast‘s production company for allegedly using the country’s ancient archaeological sites to advertise his chocolate brand without proper authorization, The Guardian reports. 

The video titled “I Explored 2,000 Year Old Ancient Temples,” featuring the influencer exploring Maya ruins including Calakmul and Chichén Itzá, has garnered approximately 60 million views since its May 10 release.

The National Institute of Archaeology and History has filed an official complaint, stating that while the permit issued to production company Full Circle Media allowed filming, it did not authorize “the use of the image of the archaeological sites for the advertising of commercial brands for private profit.” 

The institute is now “demanding compensation for damages and a public retraction, due to noncompliance with the terms.”

Sparking Criticism

Mexico’s President, Claudia Sheinbaum, has requested clarification on the conditions under which the YouTuber was granted access to the sites. The controversy intensified when MrBeast remarked in the video, “I can’t believe the government’s letting us do this,” while entering a pyramid.

The video also shows the creator advertising his own snacks brand, describing them as “Mayan-approved,” which prompted further criticism.

Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) addressed the controversy on X, stating, “The nation’s heritage, which is public by nature, cannot be exploited by commercial enterprises.”

Local residents have expressed disapproval, with Mérida tour guide Jose Elias Aguayo stating, “Restrictions and regulations should apply to everyone: domestic tourists, foreign visitors, as well as us locals.”

The controversy comes amid MrBeast’s business expansion. His holding company, encompassing ventures including Feastables chocolate brand, reportedly generated over $400 million in sales last year. The creator is currently seeking hundreds of millions in funding that would value his business empire at approximately $5 billion.

MrBeast recently formalized a partnership with Riyadh Season 2025 to develop exclusive content and physical attractions in Saudi Arabia, including introducing Feastables to the Saudi market in November 2025.