Related videos:
The Cuban-American congresswoman María Elvira Salazar requested the U.S. Department of the Treasury to investigate a group of companies based in South Florida that could be funding channels for the Cuban regime.
Telemundo 51 reported that the Republican lawmaker presented a list of 11 companies that allegedly have business ties to the Cuban government, through services such as shipments to Cuba, door-to-door remittances, and even the sale of cars to Cuban importers.
"The people from the Department of the Treasury promise us that they will investigate. Doing business between Havana and Miami is not acceptable; that cannot be done," Salazar stated.
In their view, these companies would be circumventing the embargo laws against Cuba and serving as "tapes of the regime," a phrase used to refer to possible fronts that actually economically benefit the Cuban state apparatus.
"We have identified companies that are 'tapes' of the regime. We are going to uncover them and shut them down. It is impossible for Miami to provide oxygen to the repressive Castro apparatus," he added.
This week, Salazar participated in a hearing of the House Financial Services Committee in the U.S. Congress and emphasized that thousands of residents in South Florida have come escaping repression in Cuba, demanding that the law be enforced against those who, directly or indirectly, support the island's government.
So far, the Department of the Treasury has not issued any public comments regarding the formal initiation of an investigation, although Salazar insists that the commitment was made by the agency.
Last week, Republican Congressman Carlos Giménez and Miami-Dade Tax Collector Dariel Fernández pledged to put an end to the economic ties of the Cuban regime with South Florida.
Fernández issued a public warning to companies that do business with Havana. The official emphasized that the time has come to set limits.
"It is important to make it clear to all those who are somehow continually supporting that dictatorship that the time has come to say enough here in South Florida," he pointed out.
The case could reignite the debate over permissible business dealings between U.S. entities and companies operating in Cuba, especially in a context where the administration of President Donald Trump has maintained a tough stance towards the Havana regime.
Frequently Asked Questions about Investigations into Florida Companies for Links to the Cuban Regime
Which companies in Florida are being investigated for ties to Cuba?
Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar has identified a group of 11 companies from South Florida that may be linked to the Cuban regime. These companies provide services such as shipping to Cuba, door-to-door remittances, and car sales for importers on the island. Salazar is calling for an investigation into whether these companies are violating U.S. sanctions by financially assisting the Cuban government.
What is María Elvira Salazar's stance on business between the United States and Cuba?
Maria Elvira Salazar firmly opposes business dealings between U.S. companies and entities linked to the Cuban regime, arguing that they violate the sanctions imposed by the United States. Salazar insists that these businesses provide resources that strengthen the Cuban regime and negatively impact residents of South Florida who fled the repression on the island.
What actions has the Department of the Treasury taken in response to requests for investigation into companies in Florida?
Until now, the Department of the Treasury has not issued any public comments regarding the formal start of an investigation into the companies mentioned by María Elvira Salazar. However, Salazar claims that the Department has committed to investigating these possible connections to the Cuban regime.
What consequences would Florida companies face if it is proven that they violate sanctions against Cuba?
Florida companies that violate sanctions against Cuba could lose their local licenses and be forced to shut down operations in Miami-Dade County. Additionally, they would face potential federal and state penalties, as stated by Miami-Dade Tax Collector Dariel Fernández. This measure is part of an offensive aimed at halting any economic ties with the Cuban regime.
Filed under: