One of Tijuana’s most iconic taquerias to open second location in San Diego

**Tijuana’s Legendary Tacos El Franc to Open Downtown San Diego Location in Gaslamp Quarter**

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — San Diego taco lovers, get ready: one of Tijuana’s most legendary taquerias is heading to the heart of downtown.

Tacos El Franc, the Michelin-recognized eatery known for its sizzling adobada and mesquite-grilled meats, will open its second United States location in the Gaslamp Quarter on October 8, 2025. The restaurant’s owners announced the exciting news last month.

The new taqueria, located at 528 5th Ave., marks the next step in the Baja-born brand’s expansion into the U.S., following the success of its first location at Westfield Plaza Bonita in National City.

“We’ve been blown away by the response to Tacos El Franc here in the U.S., and this new location is an exciting next step as we look towards expanding throughout California and into neighboring states,” said Roberto Kelly, co-owner of Tacos El Franc USA. “We are still seeing lines out the door at Plaza Bonita, and we’re excited to now bring the same great taste and quality to downtown so we can serve even more people every day.”

Unlike the sit-down service offered at Plaza Bonita, the Gaslamp location will focus on quick, counter-style service designed to cater to on-the-go and late-night diners. Guests can still expect authentic preparation featuring charcoal grills, traditional mesquite cooking, and a brigade-style kitchen with taqueros manning the disco, steamer, and trompo.

The menu will showcase fan favorites such as tacos de adobada, carne asada, cabeza, suadero, and tripa. Additionally, guests can enjoy 32-ounce Caguamas and a San Diego-exclusive dish—beef tallow fries topped with a variety of proteins.

Tacos El Franc began as a humble street cart in Tijuana in 1974, founded by Javier Valadez. The brand opened its first brick-and-mortar location in 1996 and quickly became a cultural icon. It has since earned back-to-back Michelin Guide recognitions in 2024 and 2025 and was recently featured on Netflix’s “Taco Chronicles.”

The Gaslamp location officially opens to the public at 4 p.m. on October 8, 2025.

For more information and updates, visit [www.tacoselfranc.com](http://www.tacoselfranc.com).
https://fox5sandiego.com/san-diego-guide/food-drink/tacos-el-franc-gaslamp-opening/

Maharashtra Introduces Digital ‘E-Bond’ System To Modernise Import-Export Trade

**Maharashtra Introduces Historic ‘E-Bond’ System to Modernise Trade**

The Maharashtra government has taken a significant step towards modernising trade by replacing traditional paper bonds with a fully digital ‘E-Bond’ system for import-export transactions. With this reform, Maharashtra becomes the sixteenth state in India to introduce this facility, aimed at easing business operations and enhancing transparency in financial dealings.

### Boost for Trade and Industry

Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule highlighted the initiative as a major relief for the state’s business and industrial sectors. Currently, Maharashtra issues nearly 3,000 to 4,000 bonds monthly, amounting to over 40,000 bonds annually for import-export activities.

“Introducing e-bonds will transform these large-scale financial transactions. While this may appear as a small procedural change, it represents an important turning point for Maharashtra’s economy,” said Bawankule.

### Simplifying Transactions and Strengthening Transparency

The new system was launched at Mantralaya, where Inspector General of Registration and Stamps, Ravindra Binwade, explained the e-bond mechanism. Officials noted that this move will simplify bond issuance at customs offices, increase efficiency in international trade, and eliminate the need for paper stamp bonds previously issued in denominations such as Rs 500.

The shift to digital bonds is expected to:

– Reduce paper usage and contribute to environmental protection
– Strengthen transparency and reduce revenue leakage
– Ensure more funds flow into the state treasury

### Maharashtra’s Push for Ease of Doing Business

The government expressed confidence that adopting a digital-first approach in revenue administration will improve Maharashtra’s Ease of Doing Business rankings.

“This initiative will accelerate trade processes and push Maharashtra’s economy forward. It is not just about convenience but also about transparency and modernisation,” added Bawankule.

With the introduction of the e-bond system, Maharashtra is poised to lead in digital trade facilitation, setting a benchmark for other states to follow.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/maharashtra-introduces-digital-e-bond-system-to-modernise-import-export-trade

Mumbai To Host Global Women’s Trade Summit This Weekend

Mumbai to Host Global Women’s Trade Summit on October 4-5 at The Westin, Powai

Mumbai is gearing up to host the Global Women’s Trade Summit on October 4 and 5 at The Westin, Powai. Organized by the International Women’s Federation of Commerce and Industry (IWFCI) India National Chapter, the event is supported by the World Trade Centre, Mumbai, and the All India Association of Industries as knowledge partners.

A pre-summit meeting took place on Friday evening at the World Trade Center, Cuffe Parade, setting the stage for the main event.

**Theme and Objectives**

Under the theme “Women as Catalysts for Global Trade and Economic Growth,” the summit aims to highlight the pivotal role women play in driving international trade and fostering inclusive economic progress.

The platform will feature an engaging lineup of panel discussions, interactive workshops, B2B meetings, and networking opportunities designed to empower women entrepreneurs and professionals.

**Key Highlights**

One of the summit’s standout features will be sessions with women leaders who have excelled in traditionally male-dominated sectors such as mining, minerals, oil, and gas. These trailblazers will share their inspiring journeys of resilience, innovation, and leadership.

Additionally, discussions will focus on how technology and AI-driven tools are transforming businesses to be more sustainable and competitive in the global marketplace.

**Words from Dr Daphne Pillai**

Dr Daphne Pillai, President of IWFCI India, emphasized the significance of the summit:

“The summit is not just a conference; it is a movement to recognize and amplify women’s voices in global trade and enterprise. Through this summit, we aim to provide a platform for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and innovation, enabling women entrepreneurs and professionals to expand their horizons and contribute meaningfully to global economic growth.”

**International Participation and Industry Representation**

Delegates from countries including Australia, Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, Uzbekistan, South Africa, India, and the USA will attend the summit. They represent diverse industries such as supply chains, insurance, real estate, hospitality, IT services, law, and finance.

**Commitment to Empowerment**

IWFCI India reiterated that the summit reaffirms its commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs and professionals as vital contributors to global trade and innovation.

Stay tuned for more updates as Mumbai prepares to welcome women leaders from across the globe to this landmark event.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/mumbai-to-host-global-womens-trade-summit-this-weekend

Overtourism: Arashiyama Launches Night Event To Ease Daytime Crowds

Organized jointly by local shopping street associations, transport operators, and residents, the project is designed not simply to attract more people but to disperse daytime congestion by creating a photogenic experience at night when visitor numbers are typically low.

The paid area is intended to generate steady revenue that can be reinvested locally. Proceeds will prioritize practical measures such as adding trash bins and toilets, preserving the bamboo forest, repairing damaged stalks, and purchasing a community bus reserved for residents. The bus would improve mobility during peak tourist seasons when traffic restrictions are imposed and some neighborhoods face fewer regular bus services than before.

Residents have long participated in discussions with merchants to address overtourism. During last year’s autumn foliage season, Arashiyama operated a trial ride-share taxi for residents affected by traffic controls to secure daily transportation.

Crowding and etiquette remain pressing issues beyond central Kyoto. In Ine, the picturesque waterfront lined with boathouses, an hourly 60-seat route bus has struggled when visitors fill seats, leaving local riders behind. Meanwhile, narrow roads have suffered frequent congestion as more travelers arrive by car.

Authorities and local groups are promoting park-and-bus-ride and park-and-cruise schemes that shift cars to free parking areas and move visitors by shuttle bus or boat. Alongside this, a sightseeing express bus that stops only at major attractions aims to reduce pressure on regular routes.

Manners problems such as trespassing into boathouses and littering have become more visible since last year, which local observers partly attribute to the rise of group tours by overseas visitors. Countermeasures include distributing multilingual leaflets on buses to explain rules and cultural norms.

The Moonlit Path organizers stress that dispersing crowds and encouraging better behavior must be paired with a tangible give-back to those who live with tourism year-round. By visibly reinvesting admission income in services residents can feel—cleaner streets, maintained scenery, and dedicated transport—the initiative aims to build a model that other destinations can adopt if it proves effective this month.
https://newsonjapan.com/article/147132.php

Maruti Suzuki’s Victoris registers 25,000+ bookings: Check waiting period

**Maruti Suzuki Victoris Registers Over 25,000 Bookings: Check Waiting Period and Key Details**

*By Akash Pandey | October 3, 2025, 03:29 PM*

Maruti Suzuki’s latest mid-size SUV, the **Victoris**, has received an overwhelming response since its launch just a few weeks ago. Sold exclusively through Maruti’s Arena dealerships, the Victoris has already garnered over **25,000 bookings** in a span of just over two weeks, highlighting strong market demand for the new offering.

### Surge in Demand & Waiting Period

The massive popularity of the Victoris has led to a waiting period of up to **10 weeks** for customers. However, the actual waiting time varies depending on factors such as the chosen variant, color preference, and geographical region. Buyers can choose from six main variants and 10 color options, along with three engine choices and three transmission options.

### Strategic Launch to Boost Sales During Festive Season

The launch of the Victoris is a strategic move by Maruti Suzuki to strengthen its presence in the highly competitive Indian utility vehicle segment. Maruti already has a robust lineup in this space with models like the **Fronx**, **Brezza**, and **Grand Vitara**. Coupled with reduced GST rates and attractive festive season offers, the Victoris is expected to significantly contribute to Maruti’s sales growth during this peak buying period.

### Performance Specifications

The Victoris comes equipped with three engine options:

– A 1,462cc K15C petrol engine with strong hybrid technology
– A petrol-CNG bi-fuel powertrain
– A 1,490cc M15D petrol engine

Transmission options include a 5-speed manual gearbox, a 6-speed automatic unit, and an e-CVT available with the strong hybrid variant. The SUV promises impressive fuel efficiency, delivering mileage ranging between **19.07 km/l and 28.65 km/l**, depending on the engine and technology selected.

### Market Competition

In its segment, the Maruti Suzuki Victoris competes with well-established rivals such as the **Kia Seltos**, **Hyundai Creta**, and **Volkswagen Taigun**. With a strong combination of engine choices, fuel options including petrol, strong hybrid, and CNG, as well as versatile transmission offerings, the Victoris aims to attract a broad spectrum of customers seeking performance, efficiency, and value.

The Victoris marks Maruti Suzuki’s ambitious push to capture a larger share of the growing Indian SUV market, backed by its extensive dealership network, competitive pricing, and innovative technology. Prospective buyers looking to own the Victoris should prepare for a waiting period of up to 10 weeks, reflecting the SUV’s strong demand and popularity.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/auto/maruti-suzuki-victoris-gets-25-000-bookings-in-2-weeks/story

Maruti Suzuki’s Victoris registers 25,000+ bookings: Check waiting period

**Maruti Suzuki’s Victoris Registers Over 25,000 Bookings: Check Waiting Period**

*By Akash Pandey | Oct 03, 2025, 03:29 PM*

Maruti Suzuki’s latest mid-size SUV, the Victoris, has witnessed an overwhelming response since its launch a few weeks ago. Sold exclusively through Arena dealerships, the Victoris has amassed over 25,000 bookings in just over two weeks, marking a significant success for Maruti’s flagship offering under its Arena retail network.

**Surging Demand and Waiting Period**

The massive demand for the Maruti Suzuki Victoris has resulted in a waiting period of up to 10 weeks for customers. However, this waiting time may vary depending on factors such as the chosen variant, color, and geographic location.

The SUV is available in six main variants and offers 10 color options. Buyers can choose from three engine types and three transmission options based on their preferences.

**Strategic Launch Ahead of Festive Season**

The introduction of the Victoris is a strategic move by Maruti Suzuki to strengthen its foothold in the Indian utility vehicle segment. The company already has a strong presence with models like the Fronx, Brezza, and Grand Vitara.

With reduced GST rates and attractive festive offers, the Victoris is expected to significantly contribute to Maruti’s sales boost during the upcoming festive season.

**Performance and Specifications**

The Maruti Suzuki Victoris promises impressive fuel efficiency, delivering mileage of up to 28.65 km/l. It comes equipped with three engine options:

– A 1,462cc K15C petrol engine featuring strong hybrid technology
– A petrol-CNG bi-fuel powertrain
– A 1,490cc M15D petrol motor

Transmission choices include a five-speed manual gearbox, a six-speed automatic unit, and an e-CVT, available on the strong hybrid variant. Depending on the engine and technology, the fuel economy ranges between 19.07 km/l and 28.65 km/l.

**Competition in the Market**

The Victoris competes directly with popular mid-size SUVs like the Kia Seltos, Hyundai Creta, and Volkswagen Taigun. Offering multiple powertrain and transmission options, including a CNG variant, Maruti Suzuki aims to cater to a wide range of buyers seeking efficiency, versatility, and modern features.

The Maruti Suzuki Victoris, with its strong market response and competitive offerings, is poised to become a key player in the Indian mid-size SUV segment this festive season. Prospective buyers are advised to check variant-specific waiting periods and make their bookings early.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/auto/maruti-suzuki-victoris-gets-25-000-bookings-in-2-weeks/story

Maruti Suzuki’s Victoris registers 25,000+ bookings: Check waiting period

**Maruti Suzuki Victoris Registers Over 25,000 Bookings: Check Waiting Period**

*By Akash Pandey | Oct 03, 2025, 03:29 PM*

Maruti Suzuki’s latest mid-size SUV, the Victoris, has received an overwhelming response since its launch just a few weeks ago. Sold exclusively through Arena dealerships, the Victoris has already amassed over 25,000 bookings in a span of just over two weeks, marking a strong debut for Maruti Suzuki in the competitive utility vehicle segment.

**Surging Demand Leads to Extended Waiting Period**

The massive popularity of the Victoris has caused waiting periods to extend up to 10 weeks. However, this waiting time varies depending on the selected variant, color, and regional demand. The SUV is offered in six main variants and ten color options, giving customers a wide variety to choose from according to their preferences.

**A Strategic Launch for the Festive Season**

Maruti Suzuki’s introduction of the Victoris is a strategic move aimed at boosting the company’s market share in the lucrative Indian utility vehicle segment. Alongside existing models like the Fronx, Brezza, and Grand Vitara, the Victoris is expected to contribute significantly to overall sales, especially during the upcoming festive season. Coupled with reduced GST rates and attractive festive offers, the timing of the launch is set to capitalize on heightened consumer interest.

**Impressive Performance and Engine Options**

The Victoris offers three distinct engine options to cater to diverse customer needs:
– A 1,462cc K15C petrol engine equipped with strong hybrid technology.
– A petrol-CNG bi-fuel powertrain.
– A 1,490cc M15D petrol engine.

Transmission choices include a five-speed manual gearbox, a six-speed automatic unit, and an e-CVT available exclusively on the strong hybrid variant. Depending on the engine and transmission combination, the fuel efficiency ranges from 19.07 km/l to an impressive 28.65 km/l, making it a fuel-efficient option in its segment.

**Competition in the Mid-Size SUV Segment**

The Maruti Suzuki Victoris directly competes with popular models like the Kia Seltos, Hyundai Creta, and Volkswagen Taigun. With its range of engine and transmission options, plus competitive fuel economy and pricing, the Victoris is well-positioned to attract buyers looking for a reliable and feature-packed mid-size SUV in India.

Stay tuned for more updates on the Maruti Suzuki Victoris and its availability at your nearest Arena dealership.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/auto/maruti-suzuki-victoris-gets-25-000-bookings-in-2-weeks/story

Netflix triumphs in ‘Squid Game’ plagiarism lawsuit against Indian director

A U.S. federal court has dismissed a lawsuit filed by Indian filmmaker Soham Shah. Shah had alleged that Netflix’s hit series *Squid Game* was a copy of his 2009 film *Luck*.

The court ruled against Shah’s claim, concluding that there was insufficient evidence to support the allegation of copying. This decision marks a significant development in the ongoing discussions around intellectual property and creative originality in the entertainment industry.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/netflix-triumphs-in-squid-game-plagiarism-lawsuit/story

Netflix triumphs in ‘Squid Game’ plagiarism lawsuit against Indian director

A U.S. federal court has dismissed a lawsuit filed by Indian filmmaker Soham Shah, who alleged that Netflix’s hit series *Squid Game* was a copy of his 2009 film *Luck*.

Shah claimed that *Squid Game* infringed on the original concept and storyline of his film. However, the court found no sufficient evidence to support these allegations, leading to the dismissal of the case.

This decision marks a significant moment in the ongoing discussions about originality and intellectual property rights in the entertainment industry, especially in the era of global streaming platforms like Netflix.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/netflix-triumphs-in-squid-game-plagiarism-lawsuit/story

Russia to import more Indian goods to balance trade: Putin

Russian President Vladimir Putin has instructed his government to implement measures aimed at reducing the trade imbalance with India.

This decision comes in response to India’s significant imports of heavy crude oil from Russia. The directive highlights the importance of balancing trade relations between the two countries to ensure mutual economic benefits.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/putin-orders-steps-to-soften-russia-india-trade-imbalance/story

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