**Export Industry in Tijuana Struggles Due to SAT Portal Glitches**
Tijuana – Recent technical issues with the SAT (Tax Administration Service) portal have created significant disruptions for the export industry in Tijuana, impacting operations with the United States. Carlos Jaramillo Silva, President of the Business Coordinating Council (CCE) in Tijuana, highlighted that the problem began over the weekend when the system failed to generate electronic invoices. This has left many businesses unable to proceed with their normal operations.
The exact financial impact has not yet been quantified, but the cancellation of electronic signatures—which are crucial for the invoicing process—has halted economic activity for numerous businesses. Jaramillo Silva described the situation as “unjustifiable,” noting that the tax system should be equipped with sophisticated technology to handle such issues without disrupting economic activities across the region.
This situation is particularly troubling for Tijuana’s industry, where 65% of businesses rely on exports. While the authorities have started rectifying the problem, many companies are still struggling, unsure of which others are similarly affected. By Monday afternoon, some businesses had begun recovering their electronic signatures, but the full scope of the problem remains unclear.
**Secondary Article: The Expansion of Otay Border Crossing and Its Implications**
In related developments within the region, the Otay 2 border crossing is nearing completion with a 90% progress rate. This new crossing is expected to further streamline trade between Tijuana and the United States, providing a vital link for the export-heavy industries in the area.
Another topic garnering attention is the rise of San Diego as the third largest port in the U.S. for small-scale traffic seizures, which underscores ongoing security challenges in border management. The industrial sector in Baja California is keenly watching these developments, seeking to maintain and expand existing investments.
Additionally, local authorities are working on enhancing security in Tijuana, focusing particularly on the city’s eastern areas which are considered vulnerable. Discussions are also underway about housing developments, with expectations of a 10% increase in real estate activity in early 2025, reflecting continued economic growth in the region.
For the export-driven industries and other sectors in Tijuana, resolving these technical glitches and capitalizing on infrastructure improvements like the new Otay 2 crossing will be crucial for sustaining growth and securing long-term economic stability.