### Anticipation of Slow Holiday Sales for Tijuana’s Restaurant Industry
With the holiday season fast approaching, Tijuana’s restaurant scene is bracing for a quieter time than usual, according to insights from the vice president of the National Chamber of the Restaurant and Seasoned Food Industry (Canirac) in Tijuana, Jovany Angulo. Despite the festive influx of locals ready to enjoy holiday meals and gatherings, several factors hint that sales might not reach the heights experienced in previous years.
One significant challenge is the ongoing impact of the United States’ stricter cross-border regulations. These changes have discouraged many tourists from Southern California from making the trip to Tijuana, traditionally a bustling destination for international visitors. Additionally, delays at the border due to ongoing construction projects result in prolonged waiting times, even further reducing tourist flow.
The local food industry also faces increased competition from the surge of new restaurants opening within the city. This influx complicates the market as it splits customer traffic among a higher number of establishments, making it more challenging for Canirac members to hit their sales targets.
Despite these hurdles, Tijuana’s restaurant workforce is expanding to meet the holiday demand, with an increase of 25% in auxiliary personnel. The hope is to accommodate the expected swell of diners, even though the potential for repeat of last year’s favorable sales is uncertain.
### Additional Insights into Tijuana’s Tourism and Economic Landscape
The drop in tourist numbers isn’t just affecting eateries; it has slashed visits to Tijuana’s historic center by 80% as well. This slump is partly attributed to recent high-impact violent incidents that have caused concern among potential visitors.
Yet, on a different front, there’s anticipated good news with projections that over 11 million foreign visitors are expected by the end of the year. Moreover, the local manufacturing sector is predicting a wage increase of up to 15% for 2025, which could boost local economic activity.
Additionally, recent reforms in Baja California’s government are stirring conversations within the community. Talks of voting to eliminate autonomous bodies are underway, a move supported by key regional leaders.
Lastly, concerning workforce registration, drivers of platform-based services in Tijuana face stringent new rules. They must register by year-end to avail a discounted application process, provided they clear regulations concerning drug use and criminal records.
These developments indicate a mixed bag of challenges and opportunities for Tijuana as it navigates the festive season and beyond.