On Saturday, the Cuban government announced an extension until January 31, 2025, for the duty-free importation of food, hygiene products, and medicines for travelers entering the country from abroad. The announcement was made through Resolution 311 of the Ministry of Finance and Prices, published in the extraordinary edition number 45 of the Official Gazette, stating that the measure will take effect next Tuesday, October 1.
Labeled as an "exceptional" decision by the authorities, the extension keeps the customs value limit for non-commercial imports by individuals at $500 USD. It also maintains the exemption from customs duty for the first 30 dollars of the value, or its equivalent weight of 3 kg, with only the excess being subject to a 30% tariff.
Additionally, food, hygiene products, medications, and supplies imported by individuals as air, sea, and postal shipments are authorized up to a limit of $200 USD or a weight of up to 20 kg. The resolution specifies that these items must be presented at customs in separate packages from other goods.
Continued Economic Hardship
The regime has been extending this measure since it was first approved following the protests on July 11, 2021. Despite the passage of three years, the situation in the country remains dire. Imports from abroad are essential for many Cuban families to access basic medications like pain relievers, which are scarce on the island.
Despite the severe shortages of medicines, food, and hygiene products, Cuban Customs maintains stringent control over travelers' luggage. Recently, international shipping agencies expressed concern over the regime's delay in announcing the extension of this measure. Thousands of Cubans abroad rely on these exemptions to support their families in Cuba.