Cuban-American entrepreneurs plan post-communist economic reforms

Affluent Cuban-American entrepreneurs in Miami are developing economic and institutional frameworks for a potential post-communist Cuba. The proposed plans include establishing a stock exchange in Havana and hosting an investment summit in the Cuban capital.

Architect Willy Bermello is leading efforts to modernize eight Cuban airports, including José Martí in Havana and Varadero, through an estimated $8 billion investment. Bermello has indicated the project would be self-financed and has notified the State Department of his intentions.

On the political front, Jorge Mas Santos, head of the Cuban American National Foundation, is collaborating with the Cuban American Bar Association to draft a 28-page transitional law. This proposal suggests a provisional government lasting up to two years to facilitate free elections. Discussions among experts also include the potential temporary restoration of the 1940 Cuban Constitution during the transition period.