Related videos:
The Government of Havana has launched an offensive against private businesses that violate tax regulations, particularly those that evade the use of the Tax Bank Account (CBF) or refuse to accept payments via bank transfer.
The measure was announced by the National Office of Tax Administration (ONAT) and published by the state-run Tribuna de La Habana, which reports that several establishments continue to conduct economic transactions through personal bank accounts, a practice that violates current tax legislation.
According to ONAT, businesses that persist in these practices will face administrative fines, temporary closures, and fiscal controls for alleged tax evasion, an act that they emphasized is "not an option; it is a crime."
Authorities warn that repeated non-compliance may entail serious legal consequences, and require economic actors in the non-state sector to act responsibly in fulfilling their tax obligations.
The use of the CBF and the acceptance of payments by electronic transfer are considered essential elements to ensure accounting transparency and traceability of money, which the ONAT qualifies as fundamental pillars for the economic sustainability of the country.
With this campaign, the government aims to exert greater control over the finances of entrepreneurs amid a context of increasing informality, partial dollarization of trade, and growing dependence on the private sector in the daily economy of the Cuban population.
In parallel with the increase in fiscal controls on the private sector, the Cuban government has intensified campaigns against economic evasion and informal activities.
Under the argument of “reorganizing the economic landscape”, operations have been launched that include direct inspections as well as national exercises coordinated by the Ministry of the Interior, with the participation of several state entities.
These actions fall within an official discourse aimed at portraying an image of greater control and legality. However, the authorities themselves have acknowledged the persistence of economic crimes, including the use of personal accounts in commercial operations, the concealment of income, and the failure to meet tax obligations by private businesses.
While greater traceability is demanded from entrepreneurs, the overall context remains characterized by distrust, institutional opacity, and a high reliance on the informal market, in addition to the issues stemming from ineffective banking.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Cuban Government's Fiscal Crusade Against Private Businesses
What is the reason behind the Cuban government's offensive against private businesses?
The Cuban government has launched this offensive to exert greater fiscal control over private businesses, in a context of increasing economic informality and dependence on the private sector. Authorities aim to ensure accounting transparency and traceability of money through the use of the Fiscal Bank Account (CBF) and the acceptance of payments via electronic transfer.
What measures do businesses face if they do not comply with tax regulations in Cuba?
Businesses that violate tax regulations, such as avoiding the use of the Tax Bank Account or rejecting payments by transfer, may face administrative fines, temporary closures, and tax audits. The National Office of Tax Administration (ONAT) warns that repeated non-compliance could lead to serious legal consequences.
Why has the requirement for fiscal accountability for self-employed workers in Cuba been strengthened?
The requirement for tax accounts for self-employed workers has been reinforced due to a significant number of private workers not fulfilling this obligation. The government aims to reduce cash usage, prevent financial crimes, save foreign currency, and strengthen fiscal control over the non-state sector as part of its banking process.
What challenges does the banking process face in Cuba?
The process of banking in Cuba faces numerous technical, economic, and cultural challenges. Many private businesses are resistant to accepting digital payments due to connectivity issues, distrust in technology, and a preference for cash to maintain liquidity. Additionally, there are failures in payment platforms and limited access to digital means for the population.
Filed under: