Cuba introduces new commercial import rules for individuals

Cuba is implementing new regulations for imports by individuals, effective October 12. Under Decree-Law 132 and related resolutions from the Ministry of Finance and Prices and General Customs, individuals can now formalize the entry of certain goods for commercial purposes.

Previously, goods exceeding non-commercial limits could be subject to seizure. Under the new rules, Customs may allow the permitted non-commercial amount to pass, while the remaining items can be processed through a separate commercial procedure. This process requires the payment of customs duties and services in U.S. dollars. Customs authorities retain the power to determine if an import is commercial based on quantity, reference values, and specific product category rules.