In the midst of a severe energy crisis, the Cuban government has announced that it will allow micro, small, and medium enterprises (SMEs) to import fuel. However, the state will retain complete control over the entire operation.
On February 7, Óscar Pérez-Oliva Fraga, the Minister of Foreign Trade and Foreign Investment, stated that companies with the necessary financial resources would be permitted to purchase fuel from abroad.
Despite this, SMEs will not have the authority to import directly. The private sector, referred to by the regime as "Non-State Management Forms (FGNE)", must coordinate purchases through state-run importers such as QUIMIMPORT or MAPRINTER.
Additionally, storage of the imported fuel must occur in facilities approved by Physical Planning and certified by the Fire Department, whether these are owned, leased, or part of CUPET's facilities.
Companies are also required to insure their storage facilities with ESICUBA, the regulatory and controlling body of the insurance activity in the country.
This policy shift comes amid widespread blackouts and fuel shortages affecting transportation, production activities, and all sectors across the nation.
On social media, several users have raised concerns about the additional costs that will arise from importing fuel through this method, citing state intermediaries and mandatory storage as contributing factors.
So far, authorities have not disclosed any information regarding profit margins, storage fees, or approval timelines—key factors that will determine whether this measure will genuinely alleviate the crisis or merely increase costs for the private sector and consumers.
Impact of Cuba's Fuel Import Policy on SMEs
What are the key restrictions on fuel imports for SMEs in Cuba?
SMEs in Cuba cannot import fuel directly; they must go through state-run importers like QUIMIMPORT or MAPRINTER, and store the fuel in approved facilities.
Why are Cuban SMEs concerned about the new import measure?
SMEs are worried about the additional costs from state intermediaries and mandatory storage, which could make imported fuel more expensive.