Articles

Because Your Vacation Fund Shouldn’t End at a Traffic Stop”
 Articles, Baja Norte

Baja’s New Hotline Keeps Tourist Trips Trouble-Free

Baja California is stepping up its game when it comes to keeping your vacation stress-free. The state’s Tourism Office is inviting everyone—locals and visitors alike—to take its shiny new complaint system for a spin. Yes, it’s real. Yes, it works. And no, you don’t need a law degree to use it.

The idea is simple: if something goes wrong with a tour operator, hotel, rental car agency, or even a public official while you’re here, you can report it quickly through official, government-backed channels. It’s part of a permanent campaign to make sure service quality stays high and shady behavior gets addressed.

How it Works

Before you even book your adventure, you can check PROFECO’s “Buzón Comercial” (Commercial Mailbox) to see if your chosen provider has a clean track record—or a history you should avoid.

If trouble strikes during your trip, just send an email to assistance@baja.gob.mx. Include the name of the person or agency involved, their license plate or badge number, and the date, time, and place of the incident.

For those who like instant action, you’ve got options:

  • 911 for emergencies
  • 089 for anonymous tips
  • 078 for roadside help from Ángeles Verdes
  • +52 (664) 624 2020 ext. 6411 for direct assistance from Baja’s Tourism Office

If you prefer to go digital, the State Attorney General’s virtual complaint portal is ready for you at https://cdtec.fgebc.gob.mx/cdtec/ or e-mail: assistance@baja.gob.mx.

Why This Matters

Tourism is big business here, and the last thing Baja wants is for a bad experience to ruin your time—or our reputation. Officials say the goal is to protect both visitors and locals while keeping service standards high.

More importantly, this is your chance to actually try the system. It’s not just a dusty suggestion box. Reports go into a process designed to track, follow up, and resolve issues, whether you’re a weekend visitor or a full-time resident.

Baja’s Got Your Back—And a Hotline to Prove It
#Bad service? Shady cop? Weird extra charge? Baja’s official hotline is here to keep your trip smooth and drama-free.

Industry Involvement

Tourism providers are also being encouraged to get on board. Hotels, tour operators, and other service businesses can participate by promoting the complaint system to customers. The more it’s used, the faster issues can be caught and fixed—something that benefits both sides.

Your Time to Shine

And if your complaint starts with, “The cops robbed me,” this is your moment to shine—or to finally tell your novella-worthy story. In fact, you can even share it in our comments (in addition to making the formal complaint, of course). Just don’t forget to have all the details the officials require, or your plot twist might flop.

Peace of Mind, Baja Style

In a place famous for sunny beaches, whale watching, and tacos worth crossing a border for, the last thing you should worry about is poor service or a questionable charge on your bill. This system helps keep things honest, fair, and fun.

So go ahead—plan that trip. If something’s not right, speak up. The government says it’s listening, and this time, it looks like they mean it.

After all, in Baja, the only thing that should be salty is your margarita.


28/08/25 UPDATE: We’ve added the +52 country code to the phone number and included the email address directly in the article. This information was previously available only in the image, but we were informed it could be confusing for international readers. Thanks Steve McCoy!

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Baja’s Moving… in Its Own Way
 Articles, Breaking News, Ensenada, San Diego, Tijuana

Baja’s New Ferry Waits, Tijuana’s Viaduct Shrinks—Progress, Baja Style

Baja California is on the move… sort of. Ensenada has a shiny new ferry sitting pretty at the dock. Tijuana’s long-promised viaduct is, well, shorter than promised. It’s progress—just not the fast-lane kind.

Ferry Fantasy Meets Dockside Reality

The Azteca Express I made its grand entrance into Ensenada’s port on July 25. Locals cheered, phones snapped, and Instagram lit up. But anyone hoping to hop on for San Diego this week is in for a plot twist—the first passenger trip won’t be until late August.

Phase one will carry people only—no cars until next year—but it will have a bar on board. Because priorities. It’ll seat about 230 passengers and take 2.5 to 3 hours each way.

Tickets aren’t on sale yet, but early chatter points to $70 USD one-way or around $130 USD round trip. The experience promises full customs and immigration checks at both ends—think “airport with a sea breeze.”

The San Diego–Ensenada ferry arrived on July 25 with room for 330 passengers, but no launch date or tickets are available yet. Here’s everything we know so far.
#The San Diego–Ensenada ferry arrived on July 25 with room for 330 passengers, but no launch date or tickets are available yet. Here’s everything we know so far.

Viaduct Loses the Beach

Meanwhile, in Tijuana, the Viaducto Elevado—that elevated road designed to whisk drivers from the airport toward Playas—has officially been downsized. The new plan ends the road at Cañón del Matadero, about 1.5 kilometers short of the beach.

The change trims the original 10.5-kilometer project and cuts Playas de Tijuana out of the direct link. Local residents worry this will dump traffic into their neighborhoods and worsen the rush. Officials say the viaduct is still on track to open late 2025 or early 2026.

Same Goal, Different Routes

In a way, both projects have the same mission—make it easier to move people and goods in and out of Baja. But like a good Baja road trip, there are always detours.

The ferry is stuck in “coming soon” mode. The viaduct is trimming its route. Neither is a total win yet, but each inch forward matters for a region that relies on cross-border travel like fish rely on water.

We’ll take the progress, even if it comes in small, slightly salty steps.

Viaduct in Action
#Workers and machines hustle under the sun, assembling what might just be the fastest road Tijuana has never seen… yet.

Quick Facts:

ProjectStatusETAFun Fact
Ensenada–SD FerryDocked, delayedLate August 2025Has a bar before it has car space
Tijuana ViaductRoute shortenedLate 2025/Early 2026Lost the beach but kept the traffic

Baja’s building momentum—just not at the speed locals (or drivers) might hope for. But hey, at least we’re not bored.

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 Articles, Arts & Literature

Mutual Hug: Where an Eagle Meets a Condor at the Border

If you’ve been to Playas de Tijuana lately, you’ve probably noticed something new on the border wall—something that doesn’t look like it belongs in a dystopian movie. No rust, no razor wire. Instead: color, shapes, and a whole lot of heart.

It’s called Abrazo Mutuo—Mutual Hug—a mural stretching about 60 meters long and nine meters high, painted on the Mexican side of the border fence. The mastermind? Alfredo “Libre” Gutiérrez, a Tijuana-born artist who, after 25 years in the game, knows how to turn cold metal into a warm conversation.

From Prophecy to Paint

The mural takes its cue from an indigenous prophecy known as The Eagle and the Condor. In this centuries-old vision, the eagle represents the cultures of the North, the condor those of the South. When the two birds fly together, peace and balance return to the land. Libre thought there was no better place to put that message than on the literal line dividing Mexico and the U.S.

And he didn’t go it alone. Ten artists joined in, including two young Kumiai creators who showed up with their grandmother. She painted alongside them, taught a workshop on native plants, and even shared traditional herbal tea recipes. This is the kind of art project where you go home with paint under your fingernails and a new respect for chamomile.

The Work and the Why

Over three weeks, the crew worked marathon days—sometimes from eight in the morning to eight at night—filling the wall with Baja landscapes, cultural symbols, and the native plants that survive here despite heat, wind, and politics. Libre says it’s about joy, unity, and deciding to “give color and life” to a place that can feel heavy with division.

The mural’s funding came from a Los Angeles foundation. While grateful, Libre didn’t shy away from pointing out the irony: no local government or big business chipped in. “We should invest in giving love to this city,” he said. “It’s a shame it has to come from abroad.”

Why Here, Why Now

The unveiling, complete with Mexica dance and participation from local indigenous groups, was timed with the 54th anniversary of Friendship Park—a binational space meant to connect people on both sides of the fence. From there, you can see the mural in all its glory, the eagle and condor locked in that symbolic embrace.

Organizers hope Abrazo Mutuo will spark more public art in Tijuana—pieces that reflect its border identity, tell its stories, and maybe even make you smile at a wall that wasn’t built to be smiled at.

As Libre put it: “We decided to be happy, to be united, to be shared nations.” Standing in front of that giant eagle and condor, it’s hard not to believe him.

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La Verbena 2025 Gets the Green Light
 Articles, Events, Mexicali, Wine

La Verbena Brings Bold Flavors and Big Energy to Ensenada

Ensenada is about to pop the cork on one of its most beloved harvest season traditions. La Verbena de Santo Tomás returns this Saturday, August 16, and it’s ready to prove that wine, art, and food can still throw a better party than Netflix.

This is the 33rd edition of the event, set in the heart of downtown at the Plaza Santo Tomás. Organized by the Fundación Elías Pando and the Centro Cultural Santo Tomás, it’s part of the Fiestas de la Vendimia—aka Ensenada’s annual excuse to celebrate wine like it’s an Olympic sport.

Why “La Verbena”?

The name comes from an old Spanish tradition where towns gathered at night for music, dancing, food, and drink. It also happens to be the name of a plant (Verbena officinalis) once used in folk celebrations. In other words, “verbena” is basically code for “let’s party, but classy.”

A Local Icon

Yes, it’s emblematic. La Verbena isn’t just another Vendimia event—it’s a love letter to Ensenada’s cultural and wine roots. It also puts the spotlight on Bodegas de Santo Tomás, the oldest winery in Baja California, founded in 1888. This year’s edition brings back the intimate, community vibe with a 150-pesos cover that includes tastings, a commemorative glass, and enough reasons to call a taxi.

Wine First, Beer… Maybe Later

Traditionally, it’s all about the wine—especially when you’re standing in the shadow of one of Mexico’s wine pioneers. This year, beer will also be available. We’re not saying you shouldn’t enjoy it, but if you’re here for hops, you might be missing the point. The focus is still on wine in all its forms: experimental blends, food pairings, and guided tastings.

What’s On the Menu?

Expect live music from electronic beats to Latin rhythms, performance art, grape stomping, and wine workshops. The Plaza’s restaurants will serve up local flavors, while pop-up kitchens and tasting bars keep your glass and plate full. Look for the “Cata y Coto” sessions at Bar Escala and bites from chefs working right in front of you.

Behind the Scenes at La Verbena
#Loic Barbara, the mastermind behind La Verbena’s cultural mix, promises a celebration with wine, flavor, and more dance moves than you expect.

Culture Meets Celebration

Art installations, creative markets, and kids’ activities make this a family-friendly affair. That said, don’t be surprised if you spend most of your time hopping between wine stands like a well-dressed scavenger hunter.

La Verbena runs from 1:00 PM to 1:00 AM, which means you have 12 solid hours to experience one of Ensenada’s most charming traditions. It’s not just a party—it’s a taste of the city’s history in every sip.

Bottom line: If you’ve never been, you’re overdue. And if you have, you already know this is the event where Ensenada shows off its true flavor—one pour at a time.

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Claudia Agatón Makes History at the Grito
 Articles, Ensenada

Historic First Woman Grito in Ensenada With Edith Márquez 

Ensenada’s about to swap its sandals for sombreros. This September 15, the city will celebrate Fiestas Patrias like never before — and make history in the process.

Mayor Claudia Agatón Muñiz will be the first woman in Ensenada’s history to lead the Grito de Independencia. About time, right? She’ll be up on the Playa Hermosa stage, ready to shout ¡Viva México! to thousands of locals, tourists, and anyone within earshot — probably including a few confused pelicans.

And because historic moments deserve a proper soundtrack, Mexican pop legend Edith Márquez will follow the patriotic yelling with a full-on concert. Bring tissues. She’s famous for songs that make you cry, sing, and question your last breakup — sometimes all at once.

What’s in Store Before the Grito

The fun starts at 7:00 PM. Playa Hermosa’s esplanade will turn into a giant, family-friendly block party. Expect tacos, tamales, pozole, churros, and that smell of grilled corn that makes you instantly hungrier than you thought possible. Drinks? Oh, plenty. From aguas frescas to Baja’s craft beers — and yes, the grown-up margaritas will be there too.

There will be live performances before the main act, because nothing says “We love you, Mexico” like dancing in the sand while holding a plate of street food.

The Moment Everyone’s Waiting For

At around 11:00 PM, lights dim, the crowd pushes forward, and Mayor Agatón grabs the microphone. Cue the bell ringing — the tradition that’s been part of the Grito since 1810. She’ll shout out the heroes of independence, and the crowd will shout back ¡Viva! after each name. By the time she yells ¡Viva México! the energy will be electric — and slightly sticky from all the cotton candy in the crowd.

Edith Márquez Lights Up Ensenada’s Fiestas Patrias
#Edith Márquez Lights Up Ensenada’s Fiestas Patrias

Then the stage belongs to Edith Márquez. Her set list will likely include Fue mi Error, Mi Fantasía, Entiende Que Ya, and Mírame. If you’re not singing along, don’t worry — the crowd will carry you.

Day Two: The Parade Showdown

On Monday, September 16, the party switches gears. The Plaza Cívica de la Patria will host the official ceremony marking 215 years since the start of Mexico’s independence movement. Then comes the Desfile Cívico Militar — part marching band, part military precision, part “wait, is that a horse in the middle of downtown?”

You’ll see school kids marching in perfectly imperfect lines, veterans in polished uniforms, and community groups waving flags like their lives depend on it. The parade route will snake through Ensenada’s main streets, so plan ahead if you want a good spot — or if you just want to avoid being stuck behind a drum line for an hour.

Why You Should Go

It’s not every year you get to see history, music, and churros in the same night. This is the first time a woman has ever led Ensenada’s Grito, and the first time Playa Hermosa hosts the city’s biggest patriotic bash. Plus, the weather in mid-September? Warm enough for sandals, cool enough to survive the crowd.

So, September 15 and 16 — two days of ¡Vivas!, music, and patriotic calories. We’ll see you there. And yes, you can bring your dancing shoes… but flip-flops work too.

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 Articles, Events, Rosarito

Rosarito Brings the Opera Back to the Beach—Free for All

Rosarito’s seaside stage gets ready for its second grand operatic comeback—yes, with real high notes and no high drama.

If you’ve ever wanted to sip wine, watch the sun dip into the Pacific, and hear a soprano hit a note that could crack glass—this is your moment. Rosarito’s XIII Opera by the Sea is back for its second official Operatic Encounter, and it’s not your grandma’s opera night (though she’s totally invited).

From Street Corners to Sea Stages

Back in 2009, inspired by Tijuana’s “Ópera en la Calle,” a group of cultural movers and shakers brought the drama (the good kind) to the beach. Their goal? Take world-class opera out of the theater and into the heart of Baja—with ocean views and free admission.

#Flyer from 2016

For a few years, it became a local favorite. Then, after a break, the festival returned in 2023. This time, it wasn’t just about singing—it added workshops, lectures, and more ways to get the crowd involved.

What’s Happening This Year?

From August 9 to 15, Rosarito’s CEART will host the Second Operatic Encounter (ENOR). This means a full week of masterclasses, rehearsals, and musical happenings—all open to the public and completely free.

Moreover, the grand finale takes place on Saturday, August 16, from 3 PM to 9 PM at the Explanada de las Artes, an outdoor space just steps from the sea. Expect theatrical performances, powerful voices, and the best sunset backdrop on the coast.

Why Should You Go?

First off, it’s fun. This isn’t a black-tie event where clapping at the wrong time gets you the side-eye. Instead, think flip-flops, food trucks, and open-air arias.

Second, it brings the arts to everyone. Whether you’re an opera regular or have no clue what a mezzo-soprano is, there’s something for you here. Even kids get into it.

Plus, you’ll support local talent, meet artists from around Mexico, and enjoy Rosarito’s food scene in one go.

A Cultural Boost, Baja Style

Opera can sometimes feel distant, but this festival makes it approachable. During the week, performers offer workshops and Q&A sessions. As a result, you get to see how the magic happens—no ticket required.

This effort also boosts Rosarito’s profile as more than just a beach town. Thanks to events like this, it’s becoming a cultural destination too.

Know Before You Go

  • ENOR Events: August 9–15, 9 AM–6 PM
  • Location: CEART Playas de Rosarito
  • Final Performance: August 16, 3 PM–9 PM
  • Entry Fee: $0 pesos. Yep, free.
  • What to Bring: Curiosity, sunscreen, and maybe a chair.

Final Notes

Whether you’re an opera buff or just opera-curious, Opera by the Sea makes for a great day out. It’s free, it’s cultural, and it’s got wine. What else do you need?

Besides, where else can you hear Verdi while wearing sandals?

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Listen to The Deep Dive, our new podcast with real news, sarcasm, and no bad news—unless it’s funny. Quick episodes made for multitasking. Subscribe now!
 Articles, Baja Norte, Breaking News

Turn Up the Fun: GGNorth Now Has a Podcast

Subscribe now to The Deep Dive podcast by GGNorth

Reading is great—until you’re flipping tortillas, walking the dog, or forgot your glasses again. So, we made listening an option.

Say hello to The Deep Dive, the new audio spin-off from Gringo Gazette North. It’s still us, just louder—and hands-free.

The brains behind it? Luisa Rosas-Hernández (yes, that Luisa—the one who writes all this) and Oliver Quintero, our publisher and chaos coordinator.

The subjects? Based on Luisa’s original articles, crafted into quick audio episodes with our signature style.

We kicked things off Tuesday with “Margaritas, Music & Mat Time: Ensenada’s 77th Party”. Missed it? Don’t worry—episode two just dropped. We keep things moving around here.

Now, you can stay informed without putting down your spatula or opening a laptop. Whether you’re on the road, cooking dinner, or pretending to be busy, we’ve got you covered.

Also, if a topic grabs your attention, you can find the full article on our website—or follow us on social media.

  • ✅ Real news
  • ✅ Sarcasm included
  • ✅ No bad news (unless it’s hilarious)

We made this for our loyal readers—and all the curious souls who found us while waiting at the DMV.

🎧 Click here to listen and subscribe before your margarita melts.

No Bad News. Unless It Matters. Or It’s Funny.

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New U.S. Rule Could Cost Tourists $15,000
 Articles

New U.S. Rule Could Cost Tourists $15,000

It’s official. The U.S. just rolled out a new rule that could make visiting a lot more expensive—for some people.

On August 5, the U.S. State Department published a temporary rule in the Federal Register. It’s called the Visa Bond Pilot Program, and it’s raising eyebrows (and a few credit limits).

What’s This Bond All About?

Starting August 20, travelers from certain countries may need to pay a refundable bond of $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000 USD to receive a tourist or business visa.

That’s right—before you even book a flight, you might be asked to front a five-figure security deposit.

According to the official document:

“Consular officers may require covered nonimmigrant visa applicants to post a bond of up to $15,000 as a condition of visa issuance, as determined by the consular officers.”

— Federal Register, 90 FR 37378, August 5, 2025

This decision is final. You can’t appeal. However, if you exit the U.S. within the allowed time, you’ll get the bond back in full.

Who Has to Pay?

For now, the U.S. has not released a list of specific countries. Still, the rule lays out three red flags:

  • A high visa overstay rate
  • Poor identity verification systems
  • Citizenship-for-sale programs with no residency requirements

Because of that, media outlets are speculating that Haiti, Venezuela, Nigeria, Russia, and India are likely to be included.

Mexico is not on the list—at least not yet.

Why Baja Should Care

Even though Mexican nationals are not currently affected, the ripple effect across Baja is real.

First, many people living in Tijuana work in the U.S.—often without a legal visa or citizenship. If they ever lose their current documentation or try to re-enter legally, this new rule could shut the door.

Second, Baja is a gateway. Tourists from other countries often land in Tijuana or Mexicali before heading north. If they’re from a flagged country, they may cancel the trip altogether.

As a result, fewer visitors could mean fewer tacos ordered, fewer tours booked, and less money flowing through the local economy.

How Does It Work?

If you’re selected for the bond, you’ll pay through Pay.gov, a U.S. government platform. The funds are held in a Treasury account until your departure from the country.

Leave on time? You’ll get your full deposit back. Overstay your welcome? Say goodbye to your money.

Who’s Exempt?

Thankfully, not everyone has to pay. The rule includes automatic exemptions for:

  • Diplomats
  • Government-sponsored exchange students
  • Travelers with humanitarian needs

Additionally, consular officers may waive the bond in special cases—but don’t count on it.

To Our American Readers

Let’s not forget: this rule makes your U.S. citizenship more valuable than ever.

While others may need to hand over thousands just to visit, you can still cross the border with ease—no bonds, no fees, no headaches.

At the same time, this rule could make Baja quieter. Tourists from some regions might avoid traveling here, knowing they won’t be able to cross into the U.S. from Tijuana or Mexicali.

Final Word From GGNorth

This visa bond isn’t just about money. It’s about access, trust, and the ever-growing wall of red tape.

Although Mexico isn’t affected—for now—cross-border communities like Baja could still take the hit.

So, if you’ve got a U.S. passport, enjoy the freedom it brings. For many others, that freedom now comes with a pretty steep price tag.

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Cheers from Above: The Margarita Crowd Gathers
 Articles

Ensenada Toasts 77 Years of Margarita Magic

Ensenada celebrates 77 years of Mexico’s favorite cocktail—with yoga, music, and more margaritas than you can count

Kickoff Party at Bar Andaluz

Margarita Month starts with a bang this Wednesday, August 6. Head to the Bar Andaluz at the Riviera Cultural Center. The Patio Bugambilias will come alive with live music from Takón Machine at 8:00 PM. Margaritas will flow freely—and at promotional prices.

The evening blends two great things: summer heat and cold tequila. If that’s not a reason to celebrate, we don’t know what is.

77 Years of Margarita Magic

This year marks 77 years since someone (probably) mixed the first margarita in Ensenada. The city’s not letting the moment pass quietly.

According to Rosela Medina Lencioni, the idea is to reconnect people with local cultural spaces. And let’s be honest—if margaritas don’t bring people together, nothing will.

The Icon Itself: Born in Ensenada, Loved Worldwide
#Nothing says summer in Baja like a frosty margarita. This classic cocktail turns 77—and Ensenada’s throwing the ultimate birthday party.

Main Event: August 23

The Festival de la Margarita takes place on Saturday, August 23, from 2:00 PM to midnight. Over 4,000 attendees are expected.

There will be seven margarita bars from Bar Andaluz, plus food stalls, music, and a kids’ zone with a movie dome. Parents can sip while the kids chill.

A surprise headliner will close the night. No spoilers—but it’s someone worth staying up for.

Margaritas Meet Yoga

If you’re into wellness with a twist, mark your calendar for Friday, August 16.

Join a vinyasa yoga class at 11:30 AM in the Jardín Misional, led by Eglys Gómez. The fee is just 150 pesos—and yes, you get a margarita afterward.

Balance, anyone?

Learn to Shake It

That same day, the Margarita Workshop is back. You’ll learn the secrets behind the perfect cocktail.

There are two sessions: 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM, each limited to 20 people. The cost is 250 pesos and includes your drink and bragging rights.

How to Join the Fun

Reserve your spot by calling 646 176 4310 (8:00 AM to 4:00 PM) or messaging 646 189 2115 on WhatsApp. You can also register in person at the Riviera offices.

Whether you’re sipping, stretching, or shaking—Ensenada is ready to celebrate. Join the party, take the class, or just enjoy the vibe. Cheers to 77 years of margarita magic!

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For the first time, Baja California’s top security leaders met at the FGR offices in Tijuana. The session was led by the state governor and featured commanders from the Navy, Army, and National Guard.
 Articles

First Time for Everything: Tijuana FGR Hosts Security Meeting

In a first for Baja California, the federal prosecutor’s office (FGR) in Tijuana hosted the state’s top security meeting—yes, that meeting, the one with the governor and all the big brass in uniform.

It was the kind of gathering where suits, medals, and serious numbers meet. But this time, the mood was more “look what we’ve done” than “look what’s wrong.”

And honestly? The numbers speak for themselves.

Between January 1 and July 26 of this year, law enforcement agencies across Baja California carried out 1,530 court-approved searches, also known as cateos. That’s a 31% jump compared to the same timeframe in 2024. Not bad for a state that’s often in the headlines for the wrong reasons.

According to the Baja FGR, the spike in activity is thanks to stronger coordination between state and federal authorities. Less finger-pointing, more teamwork. And some of that work is paying off big.

A Bust in Mexicali That Hits Hard

One of the standout victories came from Mexicali, where officers working at the Cinta de Verificación Aduanal (basically the customs conveyor belt) seized 144 kilos of methamphetamine. That’s not a typo. One hundred and forty-four kilos. That’s more than most folks weigh after a full taco tour.

There was no dramatic chase or gunfight. Just sharp-eyed customs officers doing their job. Sometimes the quiet wins are the most impressive.

A marine guards the iconic seafood market wall, hours after gunfire led to the discovery of over 300 kilos of cocaine on a nearby boat.
#Mercado Negro Backdrop Turns Crime Scene

Ensenada’s Cocaine Boat and a Not-So-Quiet Night

Then there’s Ensenada, where things got loud fast.

On July 28, reports of gunshots echoed near the iconic Mercado Negro. That’s not the kind of seafood special anyone wants. What followed was a coordinated response that led to the arrest of two suspects found transporting 307 kilos of cocaine aboard a small boat.

The federal report kept it simple, but local outlets like Hiptex confirmed that during the incident, a man was shot and killed, and another two people were injured. The drugs? Packed in colorful bricks, some even stamped with lucky sevens. Not subtle.

So while the market stayed open for business, the real action was happening just offshore—and it wasn’t about fresh tuna.

Aerial Sweeps Uproot More Than Weeds

Between June 11 and July 30, joint military and law enforcement flights covered a lot of ground. Literally. Their efforts led to the detection and destruction of 52 illegal drug plantations, covering a whopping 93,192 square meters.

To put that in perspective: that’s about 13 soccer fields’ worth of banned botanical ambition. No word yet on what was growing—probably not tomatoes—but let’s just say, Baja’s not exactly famous for its oregano exports.

Who Was in the Room?

This wasn’t your average PowerPoint-and-donuts meeting.

Present were the governor of Baja California, the state’s security secretary, the commander of the Second Naval Region, the commander of the Second Military Zone, and the state coordinator for the National Guard, along with representatives from every major law enforcement agency in Baja.

Everyone came armed with numbers—and not the scary kind. The kind that shows progress.

Security Wins Meet Trade Deadlines

Still, even as security ops ramp up, the U.S.–Mexico trade dynamic remains closely linked. On July 31, after a 45-minute phone call with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, former U.S. President Donald Trump announced a 90‑day extension before new tariffs would take effect, delaying the planned 30% import duty set to begin August 1. During that time, existing charges—including a 25% fentanyl tariff, a 25% fee on cars, and 50% tariffs on steel, aluminum, and copper—would remain in place  . As noted in our previous note, even strong security gains may not sway broader trade policy decisions.

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