Background and Relevance
Baja California, a Mexican state known for its stunning coastline and vibrant tourism industry, recently concluded the Tianguis Turístico Baja California 2025. This event, held from April 28 to May 1, attracted a record-breaking number of visitors, earning the Guinness World Record for the highest attendance in a single-nation tourism event with 7,395 attendees in one day.
Economic Impact and Achievements
The event generated an economic impact of 1,380 million pesos (approximately USD 67.5 million), surpassing expectations and demonstrating the region’s growing tourism sector. The first quarter of 2025 saw an 8% increase in visitors compared to 2024, with Baja California welcoming a total of 12 million tourists, as reported by Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila.
During the Tianguis, 71,882 business meetings took place with the participation of 1,773 international buyers, 42% of whom were from the United States and Canada. Half of these meetings resulted in direct sales, with 1,187 companies showcasing their products and services.
Binacional and Decentralized Structure
For the first time in its 49-year history, the Tianguis Turístico operated under a binational and decentralized scheme, with activities taking place simultaneously in four locations: San Diego (USA), Tijuana, Rosarito, and Ensenada. This approach aimed to unite opportunities across cultures and economies, as highlighted by Josefina Rodríguez Zamora, the federal Tourism Secretary.
Key Developments and Expansion
- Permanent Single Window in Consulates: A permanent single window system was implemented in consulates to streamline tourism-related procedures.
- New Air Routes: 35 new flight routes were opened, including direct flights between Europe and the Bajío region.
- International Showcase for Indigenous Communities: For the first time, artisans, traditional cooks, and indigenous communities from states like Oaxaca, Chiapas, and Guerrero showcased their products internationally at the Puerta San Diego.
Investment and Infrastructure
Baja California has solidified its position as a hub for tourism investment and development. During the event, significant investments were announced, including a 150 million USD hotel in Tijuana and a six-star high-end complex in the Valle de Guadalupe valued at 1,500 million pesos (approximately USD 73.2 million), according to the state governor.
These projects, along with over 12 billion pesos (approximately USD 586 million) invested in logistics and mobility infrastructure over the past three years, have attracted international investors, primarily from the United States and Canada, seeking quality of life and opportunities in the region.
