The U.S. dollar has seen a significant increase in value within the informal market, reaching 480 Cuban pesos (CUP) on Friday, January 16, 2026, according to the reference rate provided by elTOQUE.
Today, the dollar costs five pesos more than the previous day, continuing its upward trend. This surge is largely driven by the heightened demand for foreign currency for imports and purchases in both private enterprises and state-owned stores, as the value of the Cuban peso continues to plummet due to the nation's ongoing economic crisis.
Similarly, the euro has climbed to 520 CUP, marking an increase of five pesos since Thursday. It remains the most expensive currency in the informal exchange market. Despite its lower cash circulation compared to the dollar, the euro is still favored by Cubans involved in international travel or transactions.
Meanwhile, the MLC (Freely Convertible Currency) holds steady at 400 CUP, despite a decline in trust regarding this state-backed digital currency, which faces usage restrictions within Cuba's commercial system.
Informal Exchange Rates in Cuba, Friday, January 16, 2026 - 06:00
Exchange rate of the dollar (USD) to Cuban pesos (CUP): 480 CUP
Exchange rate of the euro (EUR) to Cuban pesos (CUP): 520 CUP
Exchange rate of the (MLC) to Cuban pesos (CUP): 400 CUP
Conversion of Dollar and Euro Notes to Cuban Pesos
U.S. Dollar (USD) → 480 CUP
1 USD = 480 CUP
5 USD = 2,400 CUP
10 USD = 4,800 CUP
20 USD = 9,600 CUP
50 USD = 24,000 CUP
100 USD = 48,000 CUP
Euro (EUR) → 520 CUP
1 EUR = 520 CUP
5 EUR = 2,600 CUP
10 EUR = 5,200 CUP
20 EUR = 10,400 CUP
50 EUR = 26,000 CUP
100 EUR = 52,000 CUP
Frequently Asked Questions about Cuba's Currency Exchange
Why is the U.S. dollar increasing in value in Cuba's black market?
The U.S. dollar is rising in value due to increased demand for foreign currency to facilitate imports and purchases in private and state-run businesses amidst Cuba's internal economic crisis.
What is influencing the euro's value in the Cuban informal market?
The euro's value is influenced by its demand for international travel and transactions, despite its lower cash circulation compared to the U.S. dollar.