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Arizona Border Port Could See Delays as Asylum Seekers Approach

U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Federal authorities are warning visitors of delays and closures at Arizona ports of entry as border agents and military troops take on exercises to prepare for Central American migrants coming in a caravan.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection said Wednesday that it'll be conducting exercises with the military at the Port of Nogales over the next couple of weeks, but didn't give specific dates or times.

Spokeswoman Teresa Small says there's indications that the caravan will reach the U.S.-Mexico border somewhere in Arizona. Another caravan recently arrived in Tijuana, Mexico, and some members caused clashes over the holiday weekend, resulting U.S. authorities launching tear gas.

The announcement comes during the crucial Christmas shopping season. The low value of the peso already means fewer Mexican shoppers, which impacts Nogales, which relies heavily on sales tax revenue.

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