**Import Delays Fuel Informal Vehicle Sales**
The delay in the publication of a new decree allowing the importation of vehicles in the border region has thrust the local automobile trading community into a state of uncertainty. As a result, many dealers have resorted to selling cars in the informal market. Jorge Macías Jiménez, Vice President of the Used Car Group of the National Chamber of Commerce in Tijuana, shed light on the situation, revealing that the decree was supposed to be enacted last week, yet remains unpublished without any provided explanation.
Macías Jiménez highlighted the difficulty of the situation, indicating that some traders prefer participating in the informal sector to earn a living instead of waiting for the official decree. He mentioned that while the federal government has approved the new decree, its publication is still pending. The continuation of current conditions from the previous administration remains as the new decree is yet to see the light of day.
Acknowledging the challenges faced by traders, Macías Jiménez expressed frustration about competing with black market operations and highlighted that the wages obtained from informal sales barely cover costs, making legal operations increasingly tough. Predictions suggest this situation might only improve after the decree’s publication, which, according to Macías Jiménez, will only be valid for a year, prompting the need for subsequent negotiations.
**Secondary Article: Stalled Decree and Economic Impacts**
Recent reports have stated that more than a thousand vehicles in San Diego are waiting for the importation decree to be enacted so they can cross the border legally. Local authorities and trade representatives have called on federal and regional leaders to expedite the process to alleviate economic stress in the sector.
Business groups are lobbying hard for a reduction in import taxes, arguing that the importation process is currently less cost-effective compared to other car acquisition avenues. The National Chamber of Commerce in Tijuana is expected to submit a formal request to government officials urging a re-evaluation of current importation taxes.
This prolonged delay is not only affecting car dealers but also causing frustration among potential vehicle buyers, who are keen on purchasing legally imported vehicles. The lack of a legal channel has widened the gap between formally regulated and informal market activities.
With the clock ticking, stakeholders remain hopeful for a resolution that balances market needs and legislative requirements, heralding a transformative impact on the regional economy and alleviating pressures faced by auto traders.