Cuba authorizes commercial imports for individuals

The Cuban government has approved new regulations allowing individuals to conduct commercial imports via passenger luggage and shipments. Under Decree-Law 132/2026, effective October 12, travelers and recipients can now formalize the import of goods that exceed personal use limits—previously subject to confiscation—by paying required duties and service fees in US dollars.

For passenger luggage, a progressive tariff will apply, ranging from 15% for imports up to $2,000 to 30% for amounts exceeding $6,000. Shipments sent via commercial channels will face a flat 30% tariff on the assigned value. The measure aims to improve the supply of goods and services amidst a structural economic crisis and is part of a broader series of economic reforms intended to decentralize the economy.

Specific limits for certain items remain in place, such as a maximum of five mobile phones and three computing devices (including laptops and tablets). The customs authority has also established reference values for technology, such as $200 for desktop computers and $250 for laptops, to determine customs value. This shift from confiscation to a regulated commercial channel represents a significant move toward dismantling state monopolies on foreign trade.