Sandro Castro, grandson of Fidel Castro, recently shared a video on his Instagram stories stating that vehicle imports to Cuba are "completely halted." He attributed this situation to "logistical issues," and reassured viewers that it would be a temporary situation.
The most well-known of Fidel Castro's descendants speculated about how long the Cuban regime might enforce this measure. His storytelling lacked accuracy, so we provide some essential details here. The original video, shared across social media platforms, sparked significant reactions.
What Exactly Did Sandro Castro Say?
“Some followers asked me if it's true that vehicle imports to Cuba are stopped. Yes, they are completely halted and won't be forever. It’s a matter of a month, maybe two, but it’s due to logistical reasons. For now, bringing in vehicles is not possible,” Sandro Castro stated.
Details on the Official Suspension
This measure is neither recent nor informal. The Ministry of Foreign Trade and Foreign Investment (MINCEX) officially ordered the suspension on February 19, 2026, through a resolution signed by First Deputy Minister Carlos Luis Jorge Méndez.
The prohibition includes new contracts, shipments, and previously signed contracts pending execution, encompassing consignment operations.
The Real Reason: Fuel Crisis
Cuba is experiencing an unprecedented energy crisis, with power outages lasting up to 20 hours daily in some areas. The halt on importing internal combustion vehicles is a direct response to this emergency, along with administrative delays and escalating tensions between Cuba and the United States.
Exemptions from the Ban
The MINCEX resolution excludes vehicles meant for diplomatic and consular missions, Cuban cooperants abroad, professionals contracted by Cuban entities, and crew members of ships and aircraft. Vehicles already at customs when the resolution was issued can still be sold.
Sandro Castro's Privileged Background
It's no coincidence that Fidel Castro's grandson talks about vehicle imports. A report from the Food Monitor Program (FMP), published on February 25, 2026, cites him as an example of the privileged business dealings linked to the regime's elite, with preferential access to resources, permits, foreign currency, and imports.
In July 2025, Sandro was spotted in Havana stranded in a luxurious two-seater convertible; a passerby recorded and confronted him, calling him "the Vampirach." In March 2021, he had to publicly apologize for boasting about driving a Mercedes-Benz amidst the country's economic crisis and food shortages.
Financial Impact of Private Vehicle Imports
The business was lucrative. Since 2023, when the regime allowed individuals and micro-enterprises to import vehicles, private imports from the United States exceeded $20 million in the 15 months leading up to May 2024. In the first half of 2024 alone, Cuba imported more than $30 million worth of vehicles from the U.S. Restrictions began in January 2025, culminating in a complete halt by February 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions about Vehicle Imports in Cuba
Why are vehicle imports to Cuba currently halted?
Vehicle imports are stopped due to logistical issues and the ongoing fuel crisis in Cuba, along with heightened tensions between Cuba and the United States.
Who is exempt from the vehicle import ban in Cuba?
The import ban does not apply to vehicles for diplomatic and consular missions, Cuban cooperants abroad, professionals contracted by Cuban entities, and crew members of ships and aircraft.
How much money was involved in vehicle imports before the halt?
Before the import halt, private vehicle imports from the United States to Cuba amounted to over $20 million in 15 months and exceeded $30 million in the first half of 2024 alone.