**Chinese Imports Crucial for Baja California’s Industry: Economic Council**
The reliance on Chinese imports remains vital for sustaining the industrial sector in Baja California, according to Carlos Jaramillo Silva, President of the Business Coordinating Council (CCE) in Tijuana. He highlighted that approximately 50% of the imports used in Mexico’s industrial production come from China.
Jaramillo Silva pointed out that the same proportion of imports is needed by the U.S. and Canada, although they import at a larger volume than Mexico. Following statements by the U.S. President-elect about imposing tariffs on Mexico, Canada, and China, the CCE President in Tijuana emphasized the importance of distinguishing political rhetoric from economic reality. He noted North America’s insufficiency in local supply, using semiconductors as an example, where 80% are sourced from Taiwan, Korea, and China. Imposing tariffs on these vital imports, he argued, could negatively impact the U.S. economy.
Silva also explained Mexico’s “eighth rule” which facilitates the importation of special inputs for assembly into the final product. For example, TV screens require a film not produced in North America, justifying the lower import duties on this Chinese product. As for the upcoming review of the free trade agreement between Mexico, the U.S., and Canada, he stated it is not expected to result in major changes as it isn’t a renegotiation.
**Secondary Article: Impact of Tariff Threats and Wage Predictions**
The industrial sector in Baja California has expressed concern over potential tariffs by the upcoming U.S. administration. Despite these uncertainties, manufacturing plants in Tijuana are forecasting a potential salary increase of up to 15% for 2025 as per the Association of Human Resources Industry of Tijuana (Arhitac). The CCE encourages a calm approach, acknowledging that local industries are vulnerable to international trade dynamics.
Elsewhere in Baja California, other community issues are on the rise, such as the lack of schools in certain areas, with over a thousand students waiting for places in schools. Moreover, digital platform driver registrations in the state have surpassed 11,000, although daily processing figures have significantly decreased in recent months. Additionally, civil groups are advocating for mandatory DNA checks before burying unclaimed bodies to assist families looking for missing relatives.
In infrastructure news, a new city park project in Natura is set for development entirely through private investment, underscoring the city’s reliance on non-municipal funding for major projects.