The San Diego-Tijuana metropolitan area is one of the most economically dynamic corridors in the world. Tens of thousands of people cross the border every day for work, study and family life. Yet beneath lies a striking contrast.
San Diego County, with 3.3 million residents, generates more than $300 billion in annual output, while Tijuana, with roughly 2.2 million people, produces just over $30 billion. Two cities, one large binational market.
Manufacturing, trade and cross border-labor are the pillars of this symbiotic relationship between both cities. Long-time residents on both sides, especially those involved in these sectors, can attest to its transformation over the past half century. Many businesses in California and Baja California depend on suppliers, workers and customers across the border…