Limited exports directed at private businesses signal a targeted policy approach as broader fuel constraints on Cuba continue.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
U.S. suppliers have delivered roughly 30,000 barrels of fuel to privately operated businesses in Cuba so far this year, according to shipping records reported by Reuters, indicating progress in a policy aimed at channeling resources away from state-controlled entities.
The shipments come as the United States maintains restrictions that effectively limit fuel access for Cuba’s government, while allowing narrowly defined exceptions for private-sector operators. Officials have described the approach as part of a broader effort to prioritize independent businesses over state-affiliated institutions.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the authorization of these exports is aligned with that objective. “entirely designed to put the private sector and individual private Cubans – not affiliated with the government, not affiliated with the military – in a privileged position,” Rubio stated.
The volume delivered since early February—about 30,000 barrels, equivalent to approximately 1.27 million gallons—represents only a small portion of Cuba’s historical fuel demand. Prior to recent supply disruptions, the country required an estimated 100,000 barrels per day to support electricity generation, transportation, and aviation needs.
Despite the limited scale, shipping data indicates that deliveries to private entities have been increasing incrementally. Records reviewed show a steady rise in weekly imports, suggesting an expansion of the program.
At the same time, broader fuel shortages continue to affect the island. Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel stated recently that the country had not received fuel shipments for three months, without referencing the private-sector imports.
Shipping activity reflects ongoing trade flows tied to private businesses. A total of 61 container ships carrying mixed cargo—including fuel—have arrived in Cuba this year, compared to 75 during the same period in the previous year. Most vessels have docked at the port of Mariel, west of Havana, with additional shipments en route from Spain and Jamaica.
Data reviewed shows that some vessels originated from major energy hubs, while many were classified as multi-purpose carriers transporting a range of goods. U.S.-linked shipments have increased, particularly those departing from the Gulf Coast and Florida.
The limited fuel deliveries have enabled certain businesses to maintain operations despite widespread shortages affecting public transportation, power generation, and tourism. Business owners interviewed indicated that access to fuel began to stabilize operations that had previously been disrupted.
Private-sector importers include food producers, distribution companies supplying urban markets, and online retailers. One such company, Supermarket23, had paused operations earlier this year due to fuel constraints but later resumed deliveries after securing new supplies, according to a source familiar with its activities.
Regulatory adjustments have accompanied the shipments. In February, the U.S. Bureau of Industry and Security issued guidance permitting exports of petroleum products to qualifying private Cuban entities. Cuban authorities have also authorized small and medium-sized enterprises, known as MIPYMES, to import fuel under controlled conditions.
Safeguards have been implemented to ensure compliance with program restrictions. According to sources, imported fuel is designated solely for use by the receiving businesses and cannot be resold. Companies have adopted internal controls to prevent diversion, while Cuban regulators have established protocols for storage and handling.
Fuel shipments are primarily transported in ISO tanks, each capable of holding about 21,600 liters. Approximately 200 such tanks have been delivered, with diesel accounting for the majority of the imports. Only a small portion of shipments consisted of gasoline, which requires more stringent storage conditions.
Some businesses have installed tanks at their facilities, while others have arranged to use existing infrastructure for storage, with distribution tightly limited to authorized private operators.
U.S. officials have indicated that continued access to fuel shipments depends on strict adherence to program rules. Rubio warned in February that violations could result in immediate revocation of export permissions.
“If we catch the private sector there playing games and diverting it to the regime or to the military company, if we find that they’re moving that stuff around in ways that violate the spirit and the scope of these permissions, those licenses will be canceled,” Rubio said.
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