The US dollar is trading this Friday in the Cuban informal market at 515 CUP. It maintains a high value amid the ongoing scarcity of foreign currency and increasing demand.
The U.S. dollar is the main reference for setting prices in the informal economy of the island. Its value directly impacts the cost of goods and services. Everyday transactions, such as purchasing food or basic products, are still influenced by this value, exacerbating the pressure on the purchasing power of Cubans.
The euro is trading at 575.5 CUP, making it the strongest currency in the informal market, but its price has dropped by five pesos compared to Thursday when it reached a record of 580 CUP.
Many Cubans turn to the euro as an alternative to protect themselves from the devaluation of the peso, especially in larger transactions or savings for trips abroad.
Exchange Rate Evolution
Regarding the MLC, it is valued at 408 CUP, down two pesos from its value on March 19 when it was traded at 410 CUP. This currency shows a considerable gap compared to the dollar and the euro, but it continues to be used in state-owned stores.
Informal exchange rate in Cuba. Friday, March 20, 2026 - 09:55
Exchange rate of the dollar (USD) to Cuban pesos (CUP): 515 CUP
Exchange rate of the euro (EUR) to Cuban pesos CUP: 575.5 CUP
Exchange rate from (MLC) to Cuban pesos CUP: 408 CUP
Equivalence of bills in the Cuban informal market according to current rates:
United States Dollar (1 USD = 515 CUP)
- 1 USD → 515 CUP
- 5 USD → 2,575 CUP
- 10 USD → 5,150 CUP
- 20 USD → 10,300 CUP
- 50 USD → 25,750 CUP
- 100 USD → 51,500 CUP
Euro (EUR → CUP)
- 5 EUR = 2,875 CUP
- 10 EUR = 5,750 CUP
- 20 EUR = 11,500 CUP
- 50 EUR = 28,750 CUP
- 100 EUR = 57,500 CUP
- 200 EUR = 115,000 CUP
- 500 EUR = 287,500 CUP
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