San Diego business leaders travel to D.C. to address impact of rising tariffs on local economy.

Business leaders and elected officials from San Diego and Baja California are currently engaged in a lobbying effort in Washington, D.C., aimed at addressing the repercussions of tariffs affecting the cross-border economy. This delegation, comprising over 140 representatives and organized by the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce, is set to meet with numerous federal officials to voice concerns regarding tariffs, funding cutbacks, and other business-related policies enacted by the Trump administration.

Recent developments indicate a sharp decline in both U.S. and global markets following the announcement of new tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump. As some local businesses express apprehensions that these tariffs may adversely impact their operations, Monday marked the third consecutive day of market volatility, eliciting heightened concern among economic stakeholders in the region.

City Councilmember Marni von Wilpert articulated the gravity of the situation, emphasizing that decisions made within the halls of Washington, D.C., will have significant ramifications for the regional economy of San Diego. The urgency of this mission underscores the coalition’s determination to ensure that San Diego’s voice is heard amid ongoing economic stressors.

According to the President, these tariffs are deemed essential for revitalizing domestic manufacturing and correcting trade imbalances. He has claimed on social media that the United States is generating substantial revenue through these tariffs, asserting that the economic measures are necessary for the country’s financial health.

The San Diego Chamber has stressed the critical nature of the binational economy, especially as tariffs disproportionately affect Mexico’s automotive and manufacturing sectors. This year’s trip marks the largest participation from Mexican officials, including leaders from Tecate and Tijuana, who are poised to advocate for collaboration on regional issues rather than focusing on national or state boundaries.

Prominent meetings for the coalition include discussions with high-profile officials such as Pete Flores, acting commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and California Senator Adam Schiff. Notably, the coalition has opted not to seek direct engagement with President Trump, preferring to interact with a variety of government agencies during their three-day visit.

Mayor Ron Morrison of National City emphasized the imperative for local leaders to maintain a strong presence in Washington, D.C. He reiterated the importance of direct interaction with federal officials in order to accurately represent the needs and concerns of the San Diego region.

In addition to tariff-related issues, the delegation will also address concerns regarding potential funding cuts to the National Institutes of Health, which could negatively impact research funding for local universities. Other significant topics include ongoing sewage crises in Baja California, disaster preparedness initiatives, healthcare concerns, infrastructure improvements, and tourism enhancement strategies.

Back in San Diego, other industry associations, including Tech San Diego, are proactively communicating with congressional representatives to express their concerns surrounding tariffs. Tech San Diego, representing key technology firms in the region, highlighted how these tariffs pose a risk to the innovation-driven economy, which relies heavily on intricate global supply chains. As industry leaders advocate for their interests, the lobbying efforts in Washington represent a critical intersection of local business priorities and national policy decisions.

The collective mission underscores the pressing need for San Diego and Baja California stakeholders to engage continuously with federal policymakers in order to protect and advance their economic interests amid an evolving trade landscape.