The fuel imported from the United States by Cuban SMEs is already being sold in Havana and is distributed, as was expected despite the surprise of many internet users, at CUPET service stations.
A video circulated on social media shows the moment a truck unloads a gasoline tank at the CUPET service station in Los Pinos, Mulgoba, Boyeros, in front of the Los Vegueros park-monument.
The images, shared on Facebook by user Alexander Jorge Maracha, have sparked numerous reactions among Cubans both inside and outside the island. "And how did you think this would be? The gas stations are state-owned," commented one user in response to the general skepticism.
The scene reflects a significant change in the traditional fuel supply scheme, which has historically been under absolute control of the State.
CiberCuba recently reported how private fuel imports work on the island. It is known that at least two SMEs have successfully completed the process and since the end of February 2026, they have been supplying their fleets at CIMEX gas stations, using fuel acquired from abroad, primarily from the United States.
To store and consume fuel, SMEs have two options. The first is to use a CIMEX gas station assigned by the government, where CUPET deposits the fuel for the private company to supply its fleet.
The second option is much more expensive and less profitable. It involves creating a proprietary storage point, but requires a project certified by CUPET, authorization from Physical Planning, and certification from the Fire Department, with a timeframe of 4 to 8 months to become operational, not accounting for any delays due to bureaucracy in the country.
This phenomenon marks the end of the state monopoly on fuel imports, which has been in place for decades. However, the process remains surrounded by uncertainty.
The Cuban government announced that it would regulate this activity, but so far there is no clear regulatory framework, and operations continue to be under strong state control, especially through entities like CUPET.
The procedure is complex and costly because it involves international purchasing, transportation in isotanks, maritime shipping, customs clearance, and internal distribution.
The total cost per liter exceeds $2.50, which amounts to more than 600 CUP, an unattainable figure for most businesses and citizens in the country.
This scenario is leading to the emergence of a secondary market among SMEs, where those who manage to import fuel can resell it to other companies. However, this practice operates in a legal gray area that the government has yet to define.
Despite its impact, this opening does not resolve Cuba's structural crisis. Blackouts continue, the energy system remains collapsed, and basic services are still deteriorated.
The private import of fuel represents a limited relief for the business sector, but not a solution for the country.
The private sector is starting to fill the spaces that the State has been unable to sustain, marking a significant shift in the country's economic dynamics, but the regime still controls the gas pump so you can fuel your car.
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