February 20, 2026

From aerospace and medical devices to electronics and automotive, Tijuana powers supply chains that support jobs, innovation, and cross-border growth. This month, the Chamber hosted an International Business Affairs Forum featuring Tijuana’s Secretary of Economic Development Pedro Montejo, who shared an overview of the city’s economic vision for 2026, the work of its business committee, initiatives to attract and retain talent across the region, and other key efforts shaping our region’s economic future.

With a full house of over 50 Chamber members in attendance, the Secretary shared the latest on employment trends, including the City of Tijuana’s contribution to 50% of the state’s total employment, and how cross-border workers represent 5% of Tijuana’s employment. In addition, he highlighted that under this administration, a Business Advisory Council was created with 84 active members from the business sector, chambers, and civil associations focused on expanding business, ensuring public safety, and competitiveness through five different commissions. Other topics included the expansion of the fast lane program at the land ports of entry, public safety efforts, digital governance, infrastructure and mobility, industry development, talent development, and self-compliance program for local businesses to streamline and reduce audits.

Attendees included newly appointed Consul General of Canada in Los Angeles, Sylvie Bedard; Consul of Economic and Political Affairs at the Mexican Consulate in San Diego, Barbara del Castillo; Imperial County Supervisor Jesus Escobar; Tijuana City Councilmember Gina Arana; and business and community stakeholders from San Diego and Tijuana.

This forum marks the beginning of a series highlighting our neighboring cities that contribute to our CaliBaja region’s competitiveness. The next forum will focus on the city of Ensenada. Stay tuned for details!