U.S. fuel exports to Cuba's private sector reach $156.8 million

Recent data from the U.S.-Cuba Trade and Economic Council shows that U.S. exports of fuel, gasoline, kerosene, and oils to Cuba reached $61.1 million in July 2026, totaling $156.8 million between January and July of this year.

These fuel imports are directed toward Cuba's private sector, specifically small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and self-employed workers, rather than the Cuban government or state enterprises. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has stated that this policy is designed to place non-government and non-military private citizens in a privileged position. However, officials warned that licenses would be canceled if fuel is diverted to the regime or military entities.

Simultaneously, Cuba faces a severe energy and economic crisis characterized by long power outages and inflation. Critics argue that U.S. economic sanctions and the blockade have caused significant damage, with reports presented to the UN estimating economic losses from sanctions reached $8.083 billion between March 2025 and February 2026. The situation is further complicated by the departure of international investors and hotel companies following U.S. policy pressures.