This Friday, the U.S. dollar (USD) is being traded at 510 Cuban pesos (CUP) on Cuba's informal currency market, according to the daily monitoring of exchange rates.
The American dollar remains a crucial benchmark for numerous transactions within the island's informal economy. The persistent devaluation of the Cuban peso, coupled with the high demand for foreign currency to purchase essential items like food and medicine, keeps the dollar among the most sought-after currencies by the Cuban population.
In contrast, the euro (EUR) is trading at 575 CUP today, experiencing a drop of three pesos compared to its value on Thursday. However, it still remains above the dollar in Cuba's black market. The European currency typically commands a higher price due to its rarity on the island and the strong demand for it for travel, informal imports, and savings purposes.
The Freely Convertible Currency (MLC) is priced at 410 CUP in the informal market, marking an increase of 18 pesos from the previous day.
This Friday morning, Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel is expected to make a statement. Some speculate that he might announce political changes that could lead to economic openness for Cuba. However, others believe that no significant news will be shared.
Informal Exchange Rates in Cuba. Friday, March 13, 2026 - 06:00
Exchange rate of the dollar (USD) to Cuban pesos (CUP): 510 CUP
Exchange rate of the euro (EUR) to Cuban pesos (CUP): 575 CUP
Exchange rate of the Freely Convertible Currency (MLC) to Cuban pesos (CUP): 410 CUP
Currency Conversion to Cuban Pesos (CUP):
U.S. Dollar (USD)
- 1 USD = 510 CUP
- 5 USD = 2,550 CUP
- 10 USD = 5,100 CUP
- 20 USD = 10,200 CUP
- 50 USD = 25,500 CUP
- 100 USD = 51,000 CUP
Euro (EUR)
- 5 EUR = 2,875 CUP
- 10 EUR = 5,750 CUP
- 20 EUR = 11,500 CUP
- 50 EUR = 28,750 CUP
- 100 EUR = 57,500 CUP
- 200 EUR = 115,000 CUP
- 500 EUR = 287,500 CUP
Understanding Cuba's Black Market Exchange Rates
Why is the U.S. dollar so valuable in Cuba's black market?
The U.S. dollar is highly valued in Cuba's black market due to the depreciation of the Cuban peso and the high demand for foreign currency for purchasing essential goods like food and medicine.
How does the euro compare to the dollar in Cuba's informal market?
The euro generally trades at a higher price than the dollar in Cuba's black market due to its limited availability and the demand for it for travel, informal imports, and savings.
What is the significance of Miguel Díaz-Canel's expected statement?
Miguel Díaz-Canel's statement could potentially address political changes that may lead to economic reforms in Cuba, but there is skepticism about whether any new information will be provided.