### Is 5% Inflation Real Amid Soaring Basic Goods Prices? Expert Disagrees
The 5.15% inflation rate reported for basic goods by the Mexican government is not reflecting the actual increase felt by consumers, according to Fausto Quintana González, an economist and former president of Group 21. The National Consumer Price Index (INPC) recorded this figure for the first half of August, showing a 0.33% drop compared to late July.
Quintana González pointed out that consumers witness prices rising well above the official 5% inflation rate, describing a discrepancy between government statistics and the everyday experiences of families. He argued that practical inflation might be exceeding 10%, contrary to official lower estimates.
He emphasized that merely increasing wages as a measure to enhance workers’ purchasing power could unintentionally drive up prices, leading to further inflation. Instead, a holistic and integrated planning approach is required to genuinely boost economic welfare without inadvertently spurring price hikes.
### Rising Dollar Value Hurts Tijuana Construction Companies
Tijuana’s construction companies are reportedly facing significant challenges due to the rising value of the dollar, complicating their financial planning and operations. The increased cost burden implicates potential delays and budget overruns in ongoing and future projects, causing both operational and financial strains.
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### Recent News Highlights
1. **Construction Industry Struggles Amid Dollar Surge**: Tijuana’s construction sector is under pressure due to the rising dollar value, impacting material costs and project feasibility.
2. **Consumer Prices Outpace Official Inflation Figures**: As families continue to experience higher prices for basic goods, experts argue the actual inflation rate is much higher than official statistics suggest.
3. **Capacity Building in Tijuana’s Schools**: Primary and secondary schools in prioritised Tijuana neighborhoods like Natura and Camino Verde are set to receive training on crime prevention to improve community safety.
4. **Ongoing Issue of Missing Persons in Baja California**: Activists estimate there are 30,000 missing persons in Baja California, highlighting the urgent need for systemic reforms and quicker action on disappearance cases.
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