Baja California Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda and Efraín Morales López, director general of Mexico’s National Water Commission (CONAGUA), have signed a cooperation agreement for the construction of a large-scale desalination plant in Rosarito.

The project is part of the federal government’s 2024–2030 National Water Plan and will involve a joint investment of 12 billion pesos (approximately $700 million USD) by the Government of Mexico and the Baja California state government.

Once completed, the desalination plant will ensure a clean and sufficient water supply for both current and future generations in Tijuana and Playas de Rosarito. The project aims to end chronic water shortages in the region and promote long-term water sovereignty.

According to Víctor Daniel Amador Barragán, Baja California’s Secretary for Water Management, Sanitation, and Protection, the project will be developed in phases. CONAGUA will be responsible for building the desalination facility itself, while the state government will construct the infrastructure for water conveyance and distribution.

“This agreement reflects the political will and leadership of our governor, as well as the strong support of our president, Claudia Sheinbaum, who has recognized this as a national strategic priority,” Amador Barragán stated.

With this step, the state government, in coordination with federal authorities, is addressing a long-standing need and making a historic advancement in water infrastructure.

“Thanks to our president, Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, for her firm support in ensuring this vital resource reaches the people who need it most. When water stops being a promise and becomes a guaranteed right, that’s when true transformation begins,” said Governor Ávila Olmeda.