TIJUANA, BC.- The Cali-Baja region is one of the most dynamic logistics corridors in North America, derived from cross-border productive and commercial integration , where manufacturing, transportation and supply chains operate under increasingly specialized binational schemes, as well as with new regulations that impact the cross-border transport of goods.
In the panel “Key Issues for Better Cross-Border Logistics” , Alfonso Millán, delegate in Tijuana, Tecate and Rosarito of the National Chamber of Freight Transportation (Canacar) , pointed out that being in Tijuana near the border with California – a state of the United States considered the fourth largest economy in the world – represents a privilege.
However, he considered that this proximity puts constant pressure on Baja California’s transportation companies, so a balance must be sought.
During the second edition of the Cali-Baja Transportation and Logistics Meeting (ETYL) , organized by Grupo T21, Juan Báez, CEO of Bali Express Services , said that the region faces competition from other corridors in Mexico that have greater installed capacity, which forces local companies to improve their processes, be more efficient, invest in technology, raise operational standards and professionalize transportation.
In his presentation, he indicated that between 80% and 90% of the production of the maquiladora plants established in Baja California is destined for California.
He pointed out that this northern state has had its ups and downs, since this market does not have the purchasing power it did three or four years ago, so companies in the region now also export outside of California .
According to data from the International Trade Administration , Baja California has more than 900 export manufacturing companies, many of which are directly linked to supply chains in California.
In that regard, Millán specified that the automotive, electronics, and medical industries are leading cross-border integration and have the greatest growth potential in the next five years.
For his part, Báez indicated that the 2026 World Cup has boosted television sales, a sector from which Bali Express has benefited, since 80% of its customers assemble this product.
Adjustments to cross-border transport
The dynamics of foreign trade between Mexico and the United States are going through a time of high operational pressure, marked by regulatory adjustments and sustained growth in the flow of goods.
In that context, the logistics sector faces structural challenges, as indicated by Carlos Ochoa, executive director of the Supplier Compliance Audit Network (SCAN) Association, who pointed out that the infrastructure “is not at the level of growth that Mexico is experiencing.”
The transportation sector is directly affected by these shortcomings, as every hour of downtime at the border represents not only economic losses but also a risk to cargo. Furthermore, insecurity and staff shortages in critical areas such as inspection and surveillance foreshadow a complex scenario in the coming years, which could impact bilateral trade.
From a regulatory perspective, Ochoa indicated that being CTPAT (Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism) or an AEO (Authorized Economic Operator) does not mean being completely safe, since although they are necessary certifications, they have limitations.
However, digital transformation is emerging as a way to address these challenges. The adoption of artificial intelligence, process automation, and advanced traceability systems is redefining logistics management and inspection mechanisms.
Authorities such as Customs and Border Protection (CBP) have begun implementing digital tools to process large volumes of information in real time, which anticipates a profound change in the oversight of foreign trade, the specialist indicated.
The panelists noted that the digital transition in Mexico faces particular challenges and that the region requires greater integration between public and private actors, as well as a long-term vision to ensure the continuity of regulatory and infrastructure processes that transcend political cycles.
They also warned about the tightening of visa criteria for operators and new requirements at border crossings in recent weeks, which is impacting the continuity of supply chains and the efficiency of foreign trade.
Alfonso Millán indicated that 70 visas have been withdrawn under the argument that the operators were crossing on foot into US territory to pick up their units.
Adding to this is a new and controversial CBP regulation regarding the transit of dry vans , where return shipments were being used to send empty vans that would later be filled with raw materials. However, the U.S. authority has begun to penalize this practice under the premise that an empty dry van is merchandise in itself. This “ is going to reshape the entire logistics landscape ,” Millán stated.
Juan Báez added that the transport sector has adapted to the changes in the international and global market , “and I think that differentiates us from the rest of the industry sectors, where transport always has to adapt to different eventualities.”
In addition to geopolitical and regulatory adjustments on the northern border, freight transport is impacted on national routes due to insecurity and organized crime, the panel indicated, where sections in states such as Puebla, Veracruz, Michoacán and Guanajuato were identified.
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