A Cuban woman living in Miami shared her excitement on TikTok after achieving one of her family's dreams: acquiring their first car in Cuba. She described the process as unexpectedly quick and free of issues.
Ady Machín (@adymachin23), a Cuban content creator, posted a video on June 24 detailing how she and her husband shipped the vehicle from Miami on Saturday, June 13, using a highly recommended shipping agency.
In the video, she explained that the car arrived at the Port of Mariel in just 48 hours, and four days later, they were able to pick it up, completing the entire process in under a week.
"The entire process was much quicker than we had imagined, and we are very pleased with the service," Machín stated in the video.
For Machín, the car represents more than just a material possession: "Beyond the car itself, it represents the effort and the satisfaction of seeing that things can indeed happen," she noted.
Unexpected Success Amidst Import Restrictions
This success story stands in stark contrast to the challenges faced by many Cubans in recent months. On February 19, 2026, the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Investment temporarily halted all new shipments of internal combustion vehicles to Cuba, citing the severe fuel crisis affecting the nation.
The directive, signed by First Deputy Minister Carlos Luis Jorge Méndez, allows exceptions only for diplomatic and consular staff, cooperatives, and crew members of ships and aircraft.
In this context, Machín's successful delivery—carried out weeks after the official suspension—is noteworthy, although the video does not disclose the specific circumstances that made it possible.
Challenges of Importing Vehicles to Cuba
The difficulties of importing cars to Cuba are well-known. As of January 1, 2025, individuals can import vehicles up to ten years old, limited to one unit every five years. However, tariffs of 42% can nearly double the original cost: a $20,000 car in the United States could end up costing $36,000 on the island after taxes and logistics.
At least 131 people have faced months-long delays in receiving their vehicles, with storage fees as high as $120 per day, and some owners have had to pay up to $5,500 extra to retrieve their cars.
In April 2026, dozens of Cubans protested at the Miami port, demanding the release of vehicles held for months. In June, Miami-Dade authorities issued a public warning to businesses in the sector.
In light of these challenges, Machín closed her video with an encouraging message: "If you have a dream that still seems far away, keep working towards it. Sometimes it takes time, but when it happens, it makes all the effort worthwhile."
Frequently Asked Questions about Importing Cars to Cuba
What are the current restrictions on importing cars to Cuba?
As of February 19, 2026, the import of new internal combustion vehicles is temporarily suspended due to the fuel crisis, with exceptions for diplomatic personnel and certain other groups.
How long does it typically take to import a car to Cuba?
The import process can vary, but in the case highlighted by Ady Machín, it took less than a week. However, many have experienced significant delays and additional costs.
What are the costs associated with importing a vehicle to Cuba?
Importing a car to Cuba can nearly double the cost due to a 42% tariff. A $20,000 vehicle in the U.S. might cost around $36,000 after taxes and fees on the island.