BiNational

The Greater Yuma region has a long-standing partnership with Mexico, built on commerce, trade, workforce collaboration, and economic development. As a forward-thinking economy, we continue to forge new connections that strengthen both sides of the border.

Ports of Entry

The Greater Yuma region is strategically positioned with close proximity to two key commercial ports of entry to Mexico, making it an ideal location for businesses involved in international trade. The San Luis I Port of Entry is just 23 miles from Yuma, offering efficient crossing for commercial vehicles and bolstering trade between the U.S. and Mexico. Additionally, the San Luis II Commercial Port of Entry, located 5 miles further south, is equipped to handle high volumes of commercial truck traffic and specialized cargo, reducing transit times and streamlining logistics for cross-border businesses. These ports enhance the region's role as a critical hub for commerce, providing businesses with direct access to the robust Mexican market, while supporting cost-effective transportation and supply chain operations.

San Luis Río Colorado, Mexico

San Luis Río Colorado, located just a 30-minute drive from Yuma, Arizona, is an important city within the Sonoran region. With a population of approximately 200,000, it serves as a vital hub for cross-border trade and commerce. Known for its skilled and educated workforce, San Luis Río Colorado plays a key role in the economic development of the area.

The city is home to a growing maquiladora industry, specializing in sectors such as aerospace, automotive, and electronics. In addition, agriculture remains one of the city's strongest and most influential industries.

Baja California, México

Mexicali, the capital city of the state of Baja California, is a 75-minute commute from Yuma, Arizona. Its 690,000 residents [2010 census] make it the second most populous municipality in Baja California, and one with a highly skilled and educated population, making it an important part of the region.

Mexicali is a critical center for the maquiladora, or assembly plant, production in industries like aerospace, automotive, telecommunications, and health. Additionally, one of its strongest industries is agriculture.

If you or your company are interested in Bi-National contact:

Carlos Armando Mexia

camexia@gmail.com

GYEDC’s Bi-National Representative plays a key role in advancing our mission to expand economic activity in the Greater Yuma region by fostering cross-border commerce, trade, and industry development.

San Luis Río Colorado
A Strategic Gateway for Binational Commerce

Located in the northwest region of Sonora, Mexico, San Luis Río Colorado sits at a key intersection where Sonora borders both Arizona and Baja California. The city boasts two border crossings: one for general public use, allowing pedestrian and vehicular traffic, and a dedicated commercial port for goods transport. The commercial port, situated just 1 kilometer from the city’s industrial park, offers streamlined access for logistics operations. With a capacity of approximately 1 million commercial crossings annually, the port currently operates at around 30% capacity, reflecting significant growth potential.

San Luis Río Colorado is directly connected via Federal Highway No. 2, which spans from Tijuana to Mexico City. This highway provides an essential link between the northwestern region and the rest of the country, offering seamless distribution channels. On the U.S. side, the city of Yuma lies just beyond the border, connecting businesses to the I-8 interstate, which runs from San Diego to central Arizona. Additional key highways in the area include I-10, I-5, I-15, I-17, and I-19, enabling efficient distribution throughout California and Arizona.

The city’s logistics network is further enhanced by access to Mexico’s extensive railway system. San Luis Río Colorado benefits from the proximity of Mexicali’s rail link to Ferrocarril Mexicano S.A. de C.V., ensuring connectivity for shipments across Mexico. In the U.S., two major railroads—Union Pacific (UP) and Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF)—serve the region with access to key markets including Yuma, Phoenix, San Diego, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas.

Air transportation options are also well-positioned, with Mexicali International Airport just 60 km (37 miles) away and Yuma International Airport a mere 42 km (26 miles) from the border, offering further logistical convenience.