Cuban Government to Double Toll Fees to Varadero Starting January 20

The Cuban government is set to implement a significant increase in toll fees to Varadero starting January 20, effectively doubling the current charges. This change is part of a series of "tax adjustments" approved for 2026, with the stated goal of "boosting revenue collection."

This new policy will double the tolls that have been in place for nearly a year on the Vía Blanca Matanzas-Varadero highway, amidst a severe economic crisis, crumbling road infrastructure, and a collapsed public transport system.

The regime has justified the toll adjustment by citing the "principle of graduality" within Law 113 of the Tax System. However, it failed to elaborate on the "contributive capacities expressed in certain economic events" that it claims to consider.

Embedded within Law 181/2025, which was approved by the National Assembly in December, this measure outlines the State Budget for 2026. The budget relies on a stricter tax system that disproportionately affects the non-state sector, increasing fiscal pressure.

Updated Toll Rates

Beginning Tuesday, January 20, motorcycles, cars, jeeps, vans, and pickups will face a toll fee of 80 Cuban pesos (CUP), with an additional charge of 20 CUP for each trailer.

Meanwhile, minibuses, buses, trucks, and trailers will incur fees of 160 CUP, plus 40 CUP per trailer.

According to official communications, current exemptions and discounts will remain, including a 70% reduction for vehicle owners residing in La Conchita, Boca de Camarioca, Santa Marta, and Varadero, within the Cárdenas municipality.

Advance payment discounts via toll cards will also persist, offering a 5% discount on purchases between 100 and 500, and a 10% discount on amounts exceeding 500.

Authorities have pledged that toll revenue will be allocated to the Public Transport Development Fund, aiming to "contribute to the recovery and sustainability of road infrastructure and enhance ongoing transportation service recovery programs."

In line with these objectives, the Cuban government had previously increased toll fees in February 2025 for taxed segments of the Matanzas-Varadero Highway, Cayo Santa María Causeway, and Cayo Coco Causeway.

Back in January 2021, the toll price in Varadero surged tenfold with the enforcement of the so-called Tarea Ordenamiento. Since then, the regime has consistently raised toll rates, sparking widespread dissatisfaction among Cubans burdened by the economic strain, with little improvement in road conditions or public transport services.