Friday, February 7, 2025

Gradual reopening under way in Mazatlán depite high risk level

Although Sinaloa is still painted red by the federal government’s “stoplight” coronavirus map, meaning the state is still at maximum risk for contagion, the government of Mazatlán announced a gradual reopening of the economy that went into effect on Tuesday. 

Officials announced that a variety of businesses could officially resume operations, including office supply stores, car washes, paint shops, auto parts stores and beauty salons, although in the case of the latter by appointment only.

The decision was reached Monday after government officials convened to review recommendations by the federal government as well as concerns from business leaders who had requested the gradual reopening.

More businesses will be allowed to reopen on June 23, including clothing, shoe and jewelry stores, pawnshops, opticians and appliance stores. Shopping malls will remain closed. Businesses’ hours of operation will be restricted to Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Markets and supermarkets must continue to operate at 50% customer capacity, allow only one person per family to enter the store and apply safe distancing measures.

Parks and public squares can be used for exercise on an individual basis and must be kept to a maximum occupancy of 25%.

The date for the reopening of hotels and beaches has yet to be determined. Businesses will be monitored and inspected to make sure they comply with safe practices and those that don’t will be penalized. 

As of Tuesday, the state of Sinaloa had registered 5,945 confirmed cases of the coronavirus and seen 933 deaths.

Source: La Jornada (sp), Noroeste (sp) 

Facade of the Bank of Mexico

Bank of Mexico cuts interest rate to 9.5%

2
With a vote of 4-1, the central bank lowered Mexico's benchmark interest rate half a point, after five quarter-point cuts in 2024.
A calf with an ear tag stands in a field of cattle, like those waiting to cross the U.S.-Mexico border after a screwworm infection shut down exports for three months

Mexico resumes cattle exports to U.S. after screwworm scare

0
Over 200,000 cattle are waiting at the U.S. border, which has been closed to cows since a flesh-eating cattle parasite was found in southern Mexico last November.
View of a Xochimilco chinampa across a canal

Saving Xochimilco: The battle to preserve Mexico City’s ancient canals

2
Organizations like Humedalia are working to preserve Xochimilco's traditional agriculture and stop environmental degradation from unchecked tourism.