**Delayed Vehicle Import Decree Leads to Informal Sales**
In Tijuana, the delay in publishing a vehicle import decree for the border region has frustrated local auto dealers, forcing many to resort to the informal sale of cars. This halt has created uncertainty within the industry, pushing some sellers to bring vehicles into the country illegally. Jorge Macías Jiménez, Vice President of the Used Cars Group of the Canaco Tijuana, highlighted that the decree was expected to be released last Friday but remains unpublished without explanation.
Amid this situation, Macías Jiménez reported that while the federal government has already approved the decree, its actual publication is pending. Consequently, sellers have felt compelled to enter the informal market, as existing regulations only address the so-called ‘chocolate cars’—a reference to previously imported vehicles lacking proper registration.
“We prefer to go informal and make a living rather than wait endlessly for the publication,” lamented Macías Jiménez, emphasizing the community’s need for immediate regulatory updates. He also expressed a desire for future decrees to better reflect market realities, while acknowledging the necessity to begin negotiations for the next year’s regulation once the current decree is officially published.
**Additional Insights: Growing Informal Auto Market and Public Concerns**
In response to ongoing delays, the local business community has called upon authorities to expedite the renewal process of the import decree for used vehicles. This is critical not only for formal retailers but also for individuals looking to acquire cars legally.
Compounding the current challenges, more than a thousand vehicles have reportedly been detained in San Diego due to the absent decree, according to the local business chamber. In reaction, the chamber plans to submit a petition requesting reduced import taxes to ease the transition and open market access.
Meanwhile, discussions about the region’s broader economic challenges continue. There have been incidents involving “polleros” (human smugglers) and migrants, which highlighted cross-border vulnerabilities. Furthermore, local authorities are allocating significant funds towards public security and infrastructure, aiming to address long-standing community needs. Environmental plans include investing over 12 billion pesos in a desalination plant to secure water supply for coastal areas over the next two decades.
With heightened attention on public health, authorities are also advocating for vaccinations amidst the flu, COVID-19, and pneumococcal disease risk. Vaccines remain available without charge across the public health system in Baja California, ensuring that the population remains safeguarded during seasons of heightened health vulnerabilities.