**Small Businesses in Tijuana Anticipate 30% Increase in December Sales**
As the festive season approaches, small businesses in Tijuana are gearing up for a significant boost in sales. Gina Villalobos, the president of the National Chamber of Small Commerce (Canacope) in Tijuana, has expressed optimism that local retailers may experience a 30% increase in sales during December.
“December is our peak season,” Villalobos stated, highlighting the high demand for holiday decorations, toys, clothing, home appliances, and goods for family dinners and celebrations. She emphasized the importance of staying competitive with U.S. prices to retain local consumers and avoid losing them to cross-border shopping.
Villalobos assured customers that shopping locally would save them time and offer quality products at reasonable prices right in Tijuana. Reflecting on the past year, she noted, “2024 has been generally good for small businesses. With favorable government policies, we expect further improvements next year.”
Villalobos also pointed out that despite the strides made, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the northern border area still require more government support. According to the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI), micro, small, and medium enterprises make up 99% of businesses in Baja California.
**In Other News: Tijuana’s Economic Landscape**
1. **Rise in Property Tax Values:** The Tijuana City Council has increased the cadastral values to mitigate legal challenges. This adjustment will particularly impact luxury condominiums and vertical constructions.
2. **Construction Plans in Camino Verde:** With funds from Conavi, 130 families in Camino Verde are set to receive new homes.
3. **Tax Impact on Tijuana Residents:** Areas like Playas de Tijuana and Colinas de Agua Caliente will see an increase in property taxes in 2025.
4. **Dependence on Chinese Goods:** The Baja California business community underscores the vital role of Chinese imports, with around 50% of manufacturing inputs coming from China.
5. **School Safety:** The Education Secretary of Tijuana assures that there is no sale of illegal drugs within primary schools following thorough inspections.
6. **Year-End Festivities:** With the end of 2024 nearing, Tijuana residents look forward to official holidays and breaks as per SEP’s schedule.
7. **Safety Tips for the Holiday Season:** The local security department advises residents on precautionary measures to prevent theft during the festive period.
8. **Winter Precautions:** Residents in rural areas are advised against using wood stoves during winter due to potential hazards.
9. **Cultural Events:** The “Otaku Revolution” event is set to take place in Tijuana, offering a day full of cultural experiences, from food to Japanese merchandise.
10. **Educational Infrastructure Needs:** In the eastern zones of Tijuana, the lack of schools poses challenges, with over a thousand students waiting for a place in educational establishments.
Stay tuned to TJGringo.com for more updates and insights on Tijuana’s economic and social developments.