Cuban Government Alters LPG Service Regulations: Key Points to Know

The Cuban government has unveiled alterations to the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) service regulations for the public, amidst a widespread crisis impacting families across the island. Despite official claims that these changes are part of a plan for "more efficient use of energy and fuels," the reality paints a different picture. These adjustments have been codified in Resolution No. 18/2025, as reported by the Unión Cuba-Petróleo (CUPET) on X.

In recent months, the distribution of LPG in Cuba has encountered significant hurdles, affecting millions of households reliant on this fuel for cooking. The instability in supply has led to continuous delays and restrictions in sales, prompting authorities to seek alternatives to ensure availability. While the government frames these measures as an energy consumption optimization strategy, the supply crisis is largely due to Cuba's dependency on gas imports, which have faced disruptions due to financial and logistical challenges.

Key Changes in LPG Service Regulations

Contract Holder Absence

If a contract holder temporarily leaves the country, but family members remain at the residence, the LPG service will continue for up to two years. After this period, the contract can be transferred to a chosen family member. This requires presenting an official document from the Directorate of Immigration and Foreign Affairs at a CUPET office, declaring the holder as a resident abroad. If no agreement is reached among family members, the contract will be assigned to the owner of the dwelling. If the owner is the contract holder, the order of priority includes spouse, parent, child, sibling, grandparent, grandchild, uncle, nephew, cousin, in-law, and brother-in-law, provided they meet the requirements.

For those permanently residing abroad but with family members still in the home, a provisional contract for up to two years can be established with the designated head of the household. Additionally, a provisional contract may be granted to a non-family member residing in the home, allowing service access without the Ration Booklet. After two years, the provisional contract can be extended for one more year. If the holder requests to maintain contract ownership from abroad, CUPET will hold the contract until their return. Otherwise, the provisional contract becomes permanent.

Contract Holder Incarceration

When a contract holder is imprisoned or under provisional detention without family, the contract becomes inactive but can be reactivated if the legal measure changes. A provisional contract can be made for the person managing the household until circumstances change. This exception also applies to non-family members caring for the residence, who can receive service without the Ration Booklet. The exception must be noted on the Control Card at the Point of Sale.

Transfer of Service

The LPG service contract can be transferred to any municipality in Cuba, regardless of whether the modality exists there. If applicable, the holder retains their biannual supply.

Family Transfer Rights

A holder with two 10-kilogram cylinders can transfer rights to relatives within the fourth degree of blood relation, including parents, children, siblings, grandparents, and others, and the second degree of affinity, such as spouses, in-laws, and stepchildren. This transfer initiates a new contract for the beneficiary.

Property Sale and Contract Transfer

If a contract holder sells their property without transferring the contract to the new residence or buyer, CUPET will offer a provisional two-year contract to the new homeowner. If the original holder claims their right, the provisional contract ends. Otherwise, it becomes permanent for the new owner. CUPET will reclaim cylinders and close contracts not meeting the outlined conditions.

Despite these regulatory changes, the uncertainty surrounding reliable access to LPG remains a significant concern for the Cuban populace.