**Rail Exports via San Ysidro Expected by First Half of 2025**
In an exciting development for cross-border commerce, rail exports from Tijuana to the United States through the San Ysidro border crossing are projected to commence in the first half of 2025. This prediction follows the recent initiation of installing advanced X-ray equipment and constructing a monitoring center at Tijuana’s station.
The project involves the installation of these X-ray devices by Rapiscan and civil engineering work from Constructora Prudence, with an expected completion timeframe of six to eight months. “Once we finish, we’ll be set for the first step towards achieving our export project and will proceed with negotiations with the US government,” explained Antonio Otáñez, director of the Tijuana-Tecate rail line administration.
Currently, Tijuana is the only border crossing in Mexico not facilitating rail export operations. In its anticipated first year of activity, the Tijuana-San Ysidro border is projected to handle commerce worth $600 million, with an estimated 2,500 to 3,000 units transported annually.
Alejandro Robles Segura, who manages the customs operations, highlighted the federal investment in this project as part of a broader modernization initiative implemented across 50 Mexican customs points by the National Customs Agency of Mexico (ANAM). Despite his lack of knowledge regarding the exact investment sum, he emphasized the importance of modern technological updates in enhancing efficiency.
Rapiscan is responsible for the deployment of all non-intrusive inspection X-ray equipment, a move that is expected to reduce inspection times and boost effectiveness in Tijuana. Roberto Romandía Tamayo, the general director of BJRR, revealed the company’s annual investment of over $350,000 in preventive and corrective maintenance for more than 27 kilometers of rail, including the repair of sleepers and tracks and other necessary rehabilitations.
Amid potential policy changes by the incoming US President, Donald Trump—who has proposed tariffs on Mexican exports—Romandía Tamayo noted these potential tariffs might only affect specific products. With more than a thousand manufacturing businesses in Tijuana producing a wide array of products, Romandía Tamayo expressed confidence that many items will remain untaxed.
Additional remarks were made by Otáñez, who stated that while the US president-elect has a strategy, so does Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo. “We are confident that we will continue exporting through the Tijuana-San Ysidro port.”
In 2024, there has been a noteworthy growth of 116.5% in merchandise importations, encompassing products like plastic, malt, LPG, aluminum, paper, and wood, as highlighted by a government official at a press conference. Currently, import operations occur daily at the site.
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**Tijuana’s Rail Modernization: A Step Towards Enhanced Trade Potential**
The rail modernization project at the Tijuana-San Ysidro border is garnering attention for its potential to transform the region’s trade dynamics. Following the installation of advanced X-ray equipment, the area is poised to become a key hub for efficient transportation and processing of goods between Mexico and the US.
This move aligns with broader regional efforts to bolster infrastructure and streamline operations at border crossings. Experts anticipate these technological enhancements will not only expedite customs processing but also significantly boost the region’s economic activity.
In tandem with the planned rail export operations, local manufactures are optimistic about expanding their markets and overcoming any potential trade barriers. With a diverse manufacturing base, Tijuana stands ready to capitalize on these improvements and navigate the complex international trade landscape.
As stakeholders prepare for the upcoming changes, the integration of cutting-edge technology and collaborative efforts between Mexican and US authorities are crucial. These developments underscore the ongoing commitment to fostering a more efficient and prosperous trade relationship across the border.