**Cost Hike in Freight Transport Operations Hits 20%**
The freight transport sector is facing a significant challenge as operational costs have surged by 20% in 2024. Israel Delgado Vallejo, Vice President of the Northwestern Region of the National Chamber of Freight Transport (Canacar), attributes this increase to rising diesel prices and other petroleum derivatives. This spike, combined with inflation, has driven up freight costs and doubled the fees for some cross-border procedures, such as permits for transit between Mexico and the United States.
Delgado Vallejo highlights that the economic climate has been tough for the region, exacerbated by increased toll fees, fuel prices, and tire wear, all affecting transportation costs. He emphasized the additional pressure, with looming changes like switching from diesel to electric trucks next year due to California’s new Mobility Law, further adding to cost concerns.
2024 has also been marked by economic inertia due to electoral processes in Mexico and the United States, slowing economic activity. However, Delgado Vallejo points out that this financial strain does not affect driver salaries, although the global recession has led to reduced freight volumes.
Looking ahead to 2025, Delgado Vallejo expressed concern over exchange rate fluctuations and other variables that must be considered when setting tariffs for the upcoming year.
**Secondary Article**
**Amid Operational Cost Surge, Freight Transport Faces Additional Hurdles**
In addition to the 20% increase in operational costs, the freight transport industry contends with several other challenges. Violence in regions such as Sinaloa, which transporters must navigate to deliver goods to Baja California, presents significant risks.
Moreover, issues at Mexican customs are a growing concern among freight transporters, complicating the transportation of goods across borders. An incident causing the commercial gate at Otay to come to a standstill due to violence highlights these operational disruptions.
As freight transportation navigates these difficulties, local governments and industries are closely monitoring supply chain impacts and advocating for solutions to ease the burdens on the sector.
In unrelated news, other local developments include the continued discussion of initiatives against fleeting businesses in Baja California and efforts to improve response times with new emergency units by the Red Cross. Meanwhile, criticism mounts over the inefficiencies within Baja California’s Animal Welfare Department, with calls for specialized oversight to drive change.