Cuban-American Congresswoman María Elvira Salazar (R-FL) has made a formal request to the U.S. State and Treasury Departments to scrutinize companies in South Florida that are suspected of breaching sanctions against the Cuban regime. "Sanctions are meaningless if they are not enforced," Salazar stated on her X account (previously known as Twitter). "I am urging the State Department and Treasury to examine businesses in South Florida suspected of dodging U.S. sanctions and aiding the Cuban dictatorship. District 27 demands answers."
Among the businesses under scrutiny are those offering travel packages to Cuba, home delivery services, logistics, and car sales, allegedly "bypassing sanctions" on the island. As a staunch opponent of closer ties with Havana, the Republican representative from South Florida has consistently argued that American or U.S.-based companies doing business with entities linked to the regime are in direct violation of the law.
Salazar's call heightens pressure on federal authorities to investigate potential sanction evasion networks that might financially benefit the Cuban government. This appeal comes amidst growing accusations from the exile community in Miami regarding companies that allegedly use intermediaries to trade with Cuba, despite the restrictions imposed by Washington.
Several firms are actively providing services to the island and have even received authorization from the regime for commercial activities. Last June, a Miami-based company was granted permission by the regime to establish commercial representation operations in Cuba. This company, Lux Sky Cargo, Inc., located at 8155 NW 67th Street in Miami-Dade County, is authorized to handle commercial representations in the Caribbean country, covering a wide range of products such as vehicles, parts, food, beverages, appliances, fuel, cellular phones, and refrigerated containers, among others.
Frequently Asked Questions on South Florida Businesses and Cuban Sanctions
What are the specific sanctions imposed on Cuba by the United States?
The U.S. has enforced various sanctions on Cuba, including restrictions on trade, travel, and financial transactions, aimed at limiting the regime's economic resources and promoting democratic reforms.
Why is María Elvira Salazar focusing on South Florida businesses?
South Florida is a major hub for Cuban-American businesses and has a significant Cuban exile population. Salazar aims to ensure that local businesses comply with U.S. laws and do not inadvertently support the Cuban regime.
How might businesses be bypassing sanctions to trade with Cuba?
Some businesses might use intermediaries or complex trade networks to obscure their transactions with Cuban entities, which can effectively circumvent the sanctions in place.