A diverse range of renewable energy components, including solar panels, electric batteries, lithium-ion accumulators, and transformers, can now be imported into Cuba without incurring customs duties. This exemption remains effective until December 31, 2027, under the current legal framework.
The policy is outlined in the Official Gazette No. 66, Ordinary of 2026, through Resolution 180/2026 issued by the Ministry of Finance and Prices. The regulation allows both individuals and businesses to import solar photovoltaic systems and their essential parts without paying customs duties, provided these are listed under the tariff codes in Annex I.
Comprehensive List of Duty-Free Items
Annex I details 60 tariff subheadings, covering items such as photovoltaic cells assembled into modules or panels, direct current photovoltaic generators up to 50 watts, and both alternating and direct current generators. Among the duty-free items are:
- Ethylene polymer sheets and strips
- Various types of screws and bolts
- Copper bars and refined copper wire
- Photovoltaic generators with different power outputs
- Wind energy generators
- Transformers of various capacities
- Static converters and lithium-ion accumulators
- Various electrical and control panels
Beyond these items, the resolution also emphasizes solar water heaters, photovoltaic pumps, small wind turbines, geomembrane biodigesters, biogas motor pumps, solar lighting, and solar air conditioning systems as eligible for duty-free import, provided they align with the related tariff codes.
Significant Incentives for Individuals and Businesses
The provisions extend specific advantages to individuals, allowing these goods to be imported without being counted toward the non-commercial import value limit, as long as they are presented separately at customs.
The resolution does not introduce these exemptions from scratch; instead, it consolidates existing benefits while adding new fiscal incentives. It repeals Resolution 41 from February 2026, bringing together previous exemptions with new measures favoring renewable energy sources.
Opportunities for State and Non-State Sectors
State and non-state entities involved in renewable electricity generation projects can also import necessary machinery and equipment duty-free, as specified in Annex II. If similar items not listed in Annex II are needed, entities can request approval from the Ministry of Finance and Prices, which may grant exemptions on a case-by-case basis.
The expiration date for both Annex I and Annex II is set for December 31, 2027. Resolution 180/2026 became effective on August 7, following its publication in the Official Gazette.
Common Questions About Cuba's Renewable Energy Imports
What types of renewable energy equipment are exempt from duties in Cuba?
Equipment such as solar panels, electric batteries, lithium-ion accumulators, transformers, and other related components can be imported duty-free until December 31, 2027.
How long will the duty-free import policy for renewable energy equipment be in effect?
The duty-free policy is effective until the end of 2027, specifically up to December 31.
Who benefits from this duty-free import policy?
Both individuals and businesses in Cuba can benefit from this policy, as long as the imported items are listed under the specified tariff codes.