Long border lines hurt Mexicali economy

MEXICALI, Mexico (KYMA) - Restaurants in Mexicali are reporting losses due to long lines at the Calexico Ports of Entry to both Mexico and the United States.

Customers from the U.S. make up 40% of the restaurant's business.

It's why restaurant owners are urging Mexican customs officials to speed up inspections and open more lanes.

Crossing into Mexico and then returning to the U.S. can take up to three years.

"it has a very significant impact, especially on weekends, since Mexicali is also a medical tourism destination. People come to get their teeth fixed or to have a surgery, and when they come, they visit restaurants. It's a really important economic boost and everyone is affected," said Alan Diego, President of Mexicali Restaurant Owners.

Medical tourism has also declined by as much as 40%, according to the Baja California Tourism Department.