The General Customs of the Republic of Cuba has unveiled new tariff structures for importing vehicles and accessories by individuals and permanent residents within the national territory. A crucial point to note is that the importation of electric or hybrid tricycles by individuals, either as passengers or through shipments, is permitted once every five years, in line with specific applicable legislation.
Each vehicle type has a designated customs value and a detailed payment scheme, which includes differentiated tariffs and services depending on the chosen importation method. For example, a sidecar intended for mopeds or motorcycles has a customs value of 100 USD, with additional fees outlined based on the importation method.
An electric or hybrid tricycle with more than two seats and additional cargo and passenger capacities is valued at 550 USD. Meanwhile, a combustion engine moped or motorcycle up to 250 cc has a customs value of 850 USD. The same type of vehicle with an included sidecar is valued at 950 USD. Below, we summarize the stated tariff information in a chart.
Dollar Tariffs on Certain Imports in Cuba Initiated
On January 1st, new provisions from Decree-Law 22 of 2020 came into effect, regulating non-commercial imports, which are those carried out by individuals or legal entities for personal consumption or specific use.
According to the new regulation, dollar-based tariffs were imposed on non-commercial imports of certain items. These changes primarily affect the conditions for paying customs tariffs, the calculation methods, and the currency accepted for paying customs duties.
Among the most significant changes was the requirement to pay tariffs in freely convertible currency (MLC), such as the US dollar (USD), for specific imported products. Additionally, there is now an option to apply specific tariffs based on the quantity of products imported, instead of solely calculating a percentage of their value (ad valorem duty).
Understanding Cuba's New Import Tariffs
What are the new tariff rules for importing motorcycles in Cuba?
The new rules set specific customs values and payment schemes for different types of vehicles, including mopeds and motorcycles, with varying tariffs based on the importation method.
How often can individuals import electric or hybrid tricycles?
Individuals can import electric or hybrid tricycles once every five years, according to the specific legislation in place.
What currency must be used to pay the new tariffs?
The tariffs must be paid in freely convertible currency, such as the US dollar (USD), for certain imported goods.