For the first time ever, the International Havana Fair (FIHAV) has been called off after Hurricane Rafael wreaked havoc across western Cuba. The fair was slated to begin on November 4 at the Expocuba exhibition grounds, even as a Cyclone Alert was active on the island. With around 700 exhibitors from 63 countries, FIHAV is one of the nation's most significant commercial platforms, and the regime was initially reluctant to postpone it.
Óscar Pérez-Oliva Fraga, the Minister of Foreign Trade and Foreign Investment (MINCEX), informed the state-controlled media that the decision was made due to "force majeure" after assessing the damage caused by the cyclone at Expocuba.
Hurricane Rafael's Destructive Path
Hurricane Rafael, categorized as a Category 3 storm on the Saffir-Simpson scale, swept through the western part of the island, leading to severe flooding, downed power lines, over 400 housing collapses, and significant damage to agricultural fields and trees.
In Expocuba, the storm particularly affected the Central Pavilion and pavilion 2. It also brought down trees and disrupted essential services such as electricity, potable water, communications, and internet access in the area.
Efforts to Salvage Business Deals
Despite the abrupt halt of FIHAV 2024, officials from MINCEX and the Cuban Chamber of Commerce are exploring other venues like the Hotel Nacional and Palco to hold business meetings. This move aims to ensure that foreign companies can fulfill their commitments before returning to their home countries.
The relocation effort underscores the government's determination to salvage business opportunities at a time when Cuba is grappling with a severe economic crisis and is eager to lure foreign investment.
Long-term Implications
Although FIHAV managed to proceed with its agenda for the first two days, the cyclone's impact forced the cancellation of planned activities. Pérez-Oliva Fraga noted that the Organizing Committee is considering rescheduling the fair to avoid the increasingly severe hurricane season attributed to climate change.
This unprecedented suspension of FIHAV not only marks a significant moment in its history but also highlights the additional hurdles the regime faces in attracting much-needed foreign investment amid an unparalleled economic and energy crisis.