The Cuban regime announced that it will allow micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (mipymes) to import fuel amid the energy crisis affecting the country. However, the measure retains state control over the entire operation.
The Minister of Foreign Trade and Foreign Investment, Óscar Pérez-Oliva Fraga, announced on February 7 that companies with financial capacity will be authorized to purchase fuels abroad.
However, small and medium-sized enterprises will not be able to import directly. The private sector, referred to by the regime as "Non-State Management Forms (FGNE)," will have to manage purchases through state importers such as QUIMIMPORT or MAPRINTER.
Additionally, storage must take place in facilities approved by Physical Planning and certified by the Fire Department, whether in owned, leased spaces, or within CUPET premises.
Companies will also be required to secure deposits in ESICUBA, which is the regulatory and supervisory body for insurance activities in the country.
The flexibilization occurs in a context of frequent blackouts and fuel shortages that have impacted transportation, production activities, and all sectors of the country.
On social media, several users have questioned the additional costs associated with the fuel imported through this channel, stemming from state mediation and mandatory storage.
So far, the authorities have not provided information on trade margins, storage fees, or approval timelines—key elements in determining whether the measure will truly alleviate the crisis or increase costs for the private sector and consumers.
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