The Ministry of Foreign Trade and Foreign Investment has temporarily halted the importation of combustion vehicles to Cuba, due to the severe fuel crisis gripping the nation.
An official document, corroborated by a knowledgeable source, reveals that this move is a strategic response to the current fuel supply issues and is part of broader efforts to address the crisis.
Dated February 19, 2026, and signed by First Deputy Minister Carlos Luis Jorge Méndez, the notification clarifies that the suspension affects both new and existing contracts pending shipment, including those linked to consignment agreements.
Exceptions to this suspension include vehicles designated for Cuban personnel assigned permanently to diplomatic, consular, or business missions, as well as cooperatives, professionals, and other workers hired by Cuban entities abroad or under intergovernmental agreements.
Crew members of contracted ships and aircraft are also exempt from this measure.
The document further states that while the suspension is in place, the sale of combustion vehicles already in customs warehouses can continue.
Recipient entities are required to inform suppliers and clients of this decision and take the necessary actions to comply with the directive.
This measure comes amid prolonged power outages, partial transport shutdowns, and energy restrictions that have affected various sectors of the national economy.
Recently, state-owned company Aerovaradero faced criticism following a social media post highlighting the condition of numerous motorcycles sent to Cuba and stored at Santiago de Cuba International Airport.
David Sollet Ortiz, in the Facebook group "MI CUBA MUERE", shared images and a message describing the neglect of these vehicles.
Earlier, in December, many Cubans reported that their imported vehicles had been held for months at ports like Mariel and Transimport facilities, without official explanation, and were deteriorating due to exposure to salt, rain, and sun.
Understanding Cuba's Vehicle Import Suspension
Why has Cuba halted the importation of combustion vehicles?
Cuba has temporarily stopped the import of combustion vehicles due to a severe fuel crisis, as part of efforts to manage current supply issues.
What exemptions exist for the vehicle import suspension in Cuba?
Exceptions include vehicles for Cuban personnel on permanent diplomatic, consular, or business missions, as well as for cooperatives, professionals, and other workers under international agreements.
How are Cuban entities affected by the suspension supposed to respond?
Affected entities must notify suppliers and clients of the suspension and take necessary steps to adhere to the directive.