**Tijuana Ranked Second to Last in Competitiveness: IMCO Report**
Tijuana has been ranked 19th out of the 20 most populated cities in Mexico regarding competitiveness, according to the Urban Competitiveness Index 2024 by the Mexican Institute for Competitiveness (IMCO). The report categorizes Tijuana’s competitiveness as “low,” with Saltillo, Coahuila, leading the ranking.
The IMCO evaluates six main categories, and Tijuana places either last or second to last in the areas of rights/society and environment. Concerns in these areas arise from high rates of vehicle theft, homicides, perceived insecurity, and attacks on journalists, as well as a low ratio of healthcare personnel per 10,000 residents.
On a slightly more positive note, Tijuana finds itself in the median range concerning innovation, economy, and infrastructure, although there are warnings about the low number of research centers and registered patents per 100,000 inhabitants. The city also struggles with limited hospital beds per 100,000 residents and significant dependency on water supplied by trucks.
Tijuana scored relatively better in the labor market and political/government systems, ranking fifth in both. Key positive indicators include a monthly average salary of 13,579 pesos and a notable presence of companies with over 50 employees. However, the city’s labor sector faces issues with long work hours exceeding 48 weekly. Meanwhile, public perception of governmental corruption still poses a challenge.
Mexicali, another important city in Baja California with over a million inhabitants, ranked 12th, showing a “medium-high” level of competitiveness. It performed well in society and environment, infrastructure, and labor market but highlighted issues include inadequate healthcare personnel, income disparity by gender, and insufficient hospital beds.
Ensenada, with a population between 250,000 and 500,000 residents, achieved an “average-high” competitiveness level, ranking 11th. While mid-range scores were observed in infrastructure, political/government systems, and rights, alarms were raised in areas like vehicle theft and water supply by trucks.
Nationally, the cities with the highest competitive ratings include Saltillo for large metropolises and La Paz for medium-sized cities.
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**Secondary Article: Baja California’s Economic Outlook Amid Challenging Competitiveness**
Amid Tijuana’s low ranking in the recent competitiveness report, Baja California faces broader economic challenges impacting regional development. The state’s economy is largely driven by its proximity to the United States, making it a hub for manufacturing and trade. However, infrastructure limitations and social welfare concerns persist, affecting its overall growth potential.
The ongoing emphasis on bolstering sectors such as technology and innovation is crucial. Initiatives to increase research and development investments, while enhancing educational opportunities, are underway to address these gaps. The state’s leadership is actively looking to improve transportation networks and public services to attract more business investments.
A balanced approach involving federal and local governance, investing in infrastructure, and addressing social inequalities could set the foundation for improved competitiveness and economic sustainability in Baja California.
Stakeholders emphasize the importance of public-private partnerships in fostering an environment conducive to growth and innovation, aiming for a future where cities like Tijuana can climb the ranks in national competitiveness indices.