Starting August 1, Canadian tourists will be able to make cash payments at Cuban hotel facilities, a move by the regime to attract foreign currency amid the severe economic crisis plaguing the country. The measure, announced by the Office of Tourism of Cuba in Toronto, does not disable payments through debit or credit cards issued by North American banks. Both payment methods will coexist in Cuban hotels and will later extend to some shopping centers.
"They will now accept both [payment methods]. It will start with tourist facilities," an employee of the Office of Tourism confirmed to Martí Noticias.
Canadian tourism represents the main source of international travelers to the island, highlighting the importance of initiating this measure with this sector. Notably, on July 1, several Cuban airports joined the celebrations for Canada Day.
Until June, 577,549 travelers had arrived from Canada, according to data from the National Office of Statistics and Information (ONEI). This figure far exceeds the numbers from Cuban residents abroad (155,320), Russia (112,721), the United States (83,186), and Germany (36,343), which are the countries contributing the highest number of travelers to the island.
The implementation of this measure aligns with remarks made by Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz during the third ordinary session of the National Assembly, where he discussed a "Macroeconomic Stabilization Program" aimed at controlling the "partial dollarization of the economy." Among the strategies are the acceptance of foreign currency cash in certain sectors and activities, such as tourism.
Regarding this measure, Marrero Cruz emphasized that it is imperative for the government to "accept cash in foreign currency" in state institutions. "We are losing a lot of money. We will not eliminate banking, but tourists cannot miss out on offers because their cards do not work. This measure will extend beyond tourism to include stores and other sectors," he stated.
FAQs on Cash Payments for Canadian Tourists in Cuba
To provide clarity on the new cash payment system for Canadian tourists in Cuba, we have compiled some frequently asked questions and their answers.
When will the cash payment option begin for Canadian tourists in Cuba?
The cash payment option for Canadian tourists in Cuba will start on August 1.
Will credit and debit card payments still be accepted?
Yes, credit and debit card payments issued by North American banks will continue to be accepted alongside cash payments.
Why is the Cuban government implementing this measure?
The Cuban government is implementing this measure to attract foreign currency and address the severe economic crisis affecting the country.
Will this measure be extended to other sectors?
Yes, the measure will eventually extend to some shopping centers and other sectors beyond tourism.