SEIZING CALIBAJA'S
NEARSHORING OPPORTUNITY:
A BINATIONAL CALL TO ACTION
Burnham Center for Community Advancement & Institute of the Americas
On Thursday, April 25th, the Burnham Center for Community Advancement and the Institute of the Americas hosted the study presentation conducted by Richard Kiy, John Fry, and Shane Christensen.
Key Presentation Takeaways:
1.Addressing Regional Challenges: The study emphasized the importance of tackling critical regional challenges such as infrastructure, workforce development, and access to clean energy. Additionally, it highlighted the potential impact of regulatory changes under the new presidential administration in Mexico.
2.Life Sciences Opportunity: Notably, the State of Baja boasts the largest medical device cluster in Latin America, presenting significant opportunities for life sciences companies. The study underscored the abundant talent pool in the CaliBaja region, positioning it as an attractive destination for such firms.
3.Clean Lithium Extraction: The region's potential for clean lithium extraction, particularly in Imperial Valley, was identified as a key opportunity. With enough lithium to meet US demand, commercializing clean lithium could enhance the region's competitiveness in the electric vehicle (EV) battery industry. This is crucial, especially considering California's status as the largest consumer of EVs in the USA.
4.Semiconductor Industry Development: The study highlighted the presence of Sky Works, with a semiconductor packaging facility in Mexicali, BC, as indicative of the region's potential in the semiconductor industry.
5.Otay Mesa East Port of Entry: Lastly, the report emphasized the importance of the timely completion of the Otay Mesa East Port of Entry. This critical infrastructure project is expected to enhance the region's competitiveness by facilitating smoother trade and transportation.
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