Tijuana and San Diego are known not only for their proximity, but also for their cultural diversity, which is reflected in traditions, customs and even gastronomy. All of this is shared and experienced on both sides of the border, as seen during the fall celebrations, in which both cities commemorate both Halloween and the Day of the Dead.
Day of the Dead: This is what you cannot bring into the United States
Starting November 1, preparations begin to carry out the Day of the Dead altars. It is important to note that the southern border area of the United States also celebrates these traditions, because a large part of its community is Mexican. However, the North American country has specific policies regarding the crossing of products, which include certain items frequently used in these altars.
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has reiterated to travelers that, during this time, certain products are prohibited from entering the country, and urges them to avoid trying to cross them. These products are:
Murraya or orange jasmine (frequently used as decoration)
Oranges
Grapefruits
Mandarins
Sour oranges
Sweet limes
Guavas
Mangos
Peaches
Pomegranates
The ban on these products has a specific reason: citrus and ornamental plants (such as orange jasmine) can carry the citrus greening disease, also known as “huanglongbing.” This disease was first detected in the United States in 2005 and is transmitted by the insect “Diaphorina citri.” Currently, it has seriously affected citrus crops in countries in Asia, India, Africa, and the Arabian Peninsula.
Failure to declare these prohibited agricultural items upon entering the United States could result not only in their confiscation, but also in a fine ranging from $500 to more than $250,000.
Source: sandiegored
