**Minimum Wage in Tijuana’s Maquiladoras Could Rise up to 15% in 2025**
The maquiladora sector in Tijuana is anticipating a salary increase of up to 15% starting January 1, 2025, according to Obdulia Rodríguez Sánchez, the president of the Tijuana Human Resources Industry Association (Arhitac). Rodríguez Sánchez noted that while the expected increase ranges from 12% to 15%, it may differ for unionized workers.
Negotiations have commenced in the National Minimum Wage Commission (Conasami) to establish a new minimum wage effective from January 2025. As of now, the minimum wage in the northern border area stands at 374.89 pesos. Rodríguez Sánchez reminded that most maquiladora companies in the region already pay above the minimum wage, with entry-level workers receiving between a 5% and 6% increase depending on the industry.
**Increased Wages and Industry Insights**
In addition to the expected wage rise, the use of robotics in the industry promises better salaries for workers, as per Arhitac. As companies integrate more technology into operations, the demand for skilled labor is projected to increase, which could lead to improved compensation.
**Legislative Discussions on Labor Hours**
Another significant development is the upcoming legislative discussion concerning labor hours, particularly the proposal for a 40-hour workweek. Experts emphasize the importance of a consensual agreement rather than a unilateral decision, suggesting that any legislative changes should carefully consider input from all stakeholders.
**Union Actions and Civic Issues**
The region is also witnessing labor unrest, with bureaucrats threatening strikes and roadblocks due to dissatisfaction with the proposed reform to ISSSTECALI, a state social security and health services institute. There are calls for a financial review of the institute before pursuing any reforms.
Separately, initiatives such as community efforts to support animal rescue missions and concerns about infrastructure, like damaged sidewalks in Tijuana’s Centro area, continue to shape local discourse. Industrialists in Baja California express concerns over potential tariffs but advocate for calm, emphasizing negotiation as a key strategy. Meanwhile, weather forecasts predict mostly overcast skies with a maximum temperature of 21°C in the city.
The local government is also planning to enhance security at border crossings by employing private security guards starting January, funded by the “Fondos Tijuana” program.