The downward spiral of international tourism in Cuba shows no signs of abating in 2025, cementing a negative trajectory that dashes hopes for a post-pandemic rebound. Preliminary figures from the National Office of Statistics and Information (ONEI) indicate that from January to July of this year, 1,577,330 travelers visited Cuba, accounting for only 82.8% of the total arrivals during the same period in 2024. This translates to a deficit of 328,126 visitors.
Out of this total, 1,123,987 were international tourists, representing just 76.8% compared to 2024, a decrease of 338,922 visitors. These statistics highlight a persistent and structural decline in the tourism sector, which has long been considered a cornerstone of Cuba's economy.
Particularly sharp declines have been observed in some of Cuba’s major tourist markets. Russia, which had recently emerged as a significant source of tourists, experienced the steepest drop, with only 71,797 visitors, constituting 58.2% of last year’s numbers. Germany and Spain followed with declines of 60.7% and 72%, respectively.
Conversely, countries like Argentina and Colombia have shown slight increases compared to 2024, though their contributions to the overall numbers remain minor. The Cuban diaspora, typically a stable source of tourism revenue, saw a more moderate decrease at 78.5%, continuing to play a crucial role in the sector.
In a social media post on X, economist Pedro Monreal highlighted that despite receiving less attention recently, the sustained crisis in Cuba’s international tourism sector underscores the severity of the situation. "It may have stopped making headlines, but the crisis in Cuba's international tourism sector is deepening," Monreal commented, noting that the first half of the year's numbers are only three-quarters of those from the previous year.
As tourism falters, the Cuban regime remains focused on hotel construction, investing millions in infrastructure that starkly contrasts with the scarcity of resources in critical areas like healthcare and food. This strategy has been criticized by experts and citizens alike, who argue it does not align with the country's real needs or market demand.
ONEI's published graphs reveal that July 2025 was one of the worst months for international arrivals, solidifying a downward trend that began in April. At this rate, official forecasts for the end of 2025 may fall significantly short of expectations.
The collapse of tourism is a reflection of the profound economic, political, and social crises plaguing Cuba, characterized by deteriorating services, mass emigration, and an inability to attract international visitors in a competitive global landscape.
Understanding Cuba's Tourism Decline
What factors are contributing to the decline of tourism in Cuba?
The decline in tourism is attributed to Cuba's ongoing economic, political, and social challenges, including deteriorating services, mass emigration, and a lack of competitive conditions for attracting international visitors.
Which countries have shown the most significant drop in tourists to Cuba?
Russia, Germany, and Spain have experienced the most significant declines in tourists visiting Cuba, with drops of 58.2%, 60.7%, and 72% respectively.
How has the Cuban government's strategy been received in light of the tourism decline?
The government's focus on hotel construction has been criticized for not addressing the country's real needs and market demands, especially given the scarcity of resources in vital sectors like healthcare and food.