### Low Sales Projected for Christmas Season in Tijuana: Restaurant Industry Faces Challenges
The National Chamber of the Restaurant and Seasoned Food Industry (Canirac) in Tijuana anticipates minimal sales during the upcoming Christmas season. According to Jovany Angulo, the vice president of Canirac in Tijuana, several factors are affecting the sector’s outlook this festive period.
One of the primary challenges cited is the recent opening of many new restaurants in the city. This surge in competition means that existing restaurant operators may struggle to meet their sales targets compared to previous years. Despite this, local establishments are gearing up to welcome many diners for Christmas parties and gatherings.
The workforce in the restaurant sector is seeing a 25% increase in auxiliary staff to cope with the expected higher influx of customers during the holidays. However, Angulo mentioned that sales might resemble those of the previous year due to ongoing issues.
Additionally, modified border crossing measures between the United States and Mexico are impacting the sector, as fewer visitors from Southern California are traveling to Tijuana. Lengthy wait times, often extending up to two hours from San Diego to Tijuana, and even longer return times, further deter potential customers.
Despite these concerns, there is an optimistic outlook for a 20% rise in restaurant traffic this holiday season, particularly during Christmas dinners and celebrations welcoming the New Year 2025.
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### Additional Insights: Impact of Border Changes and Tourist Decline on Tijuana’s Economy
The recent changes in cross-border travel regulations have not only impacted the restaurant industry but have also contributed to a broader economic challenge for Tijuana. Reports suggest a significant reduction in the number of tourists visiting the city’s historic center following recent incidents of violence. This decrease, estimated at around 80%, poses a considerable threat to local businesses reliant on tourist spending.
Compounding this are budgetary challenges anticipated for 2025, as predicted by regional expert Ávila Olmeda. Financial cutbacks at the federal level, along with local economic and security issues, could result in a complex business environment.
Moreover, the planned hike in the minimum wage stands to affect micro, small, and medium-sized businesses, potentially discouraging new hires due to increased labor costs.
As Tijuana navigates these multifaceted challenges, community leaders are calling for strategic interventions to safeguard the economic stability of the region and ensure a prosperous future for its residents and businesses alike.