The informal currency market in Cuba experienced notable shifts on December 12, as the euro's price fell and the value of the Freely Convertible Currency (MLC) rose.
As of Friday morning, the European currency dropped to 485 Cuban Pesos (CUP) per unit, marking a decrease of five pesos. This shift disrupts the euro’s recent stability, which had been steady at 490 CUP since December 1.
Meanwhile, the MLC saw an increase, climbing to 295 CUP, regaining the five pesos it had lost the previous day. This information comes from the independent outlet elTOQUE, which regularly tracks the fluctuations of currency prices in Cuba.
The U.S. dollar, however, remains stable, valued at 440 CUP.
Current Exchange Rates on December 12, 2025 - 6:26 a.m. in Cuba
According to elTOQUE, the exchange rate for the U.S. dollar (USD) to CUP is 440 CUP. The euro (EUR) to CUP is 485 CUP, while the MLC to CUP is 295 CUP.
Currency Conversion Equivalents
For U.S. dollars to Cuban Pesos, the conversion is as follows:
- 1 USD = 440 CUP
- 5 USD = 2,200 CUP
- 10 USD = 4,400 CUP
- 20 USD = 8,800 CUP
- 50 USD = 22,000 CUP
- 100 USD = 44,000 CUP
For euros to Cuban Pesos, the conversion is as follows:
- 1 EUR = 485 CUP
- 5 EUR = 2,425 CUP
- 10 EUR = 4,850 CUP
- 20 EUR = 9,700 CUP
- 50 EUR = 24,250 CUP
- 100 EUR = 48,500 CUP
- 200 EUR = 97,000 CUP
- 500 EUR = 242,500 CUP
In recent weeks, the Cuban government has ramped up efforts against the informal currency market and the benchmark rates published by elTOQUE. This crackdown includes criminal investigations, threats against currency traders, and a communication strategy aimed at discrediting alternative sources of pricing for the dollar, euro, and other currencies.
Understanding Cuba's Currency Market Dynamics
Why did the euro's value decrease in the Cuban market?
The euro's value decreased due to changes in market dynamics and possibly external factors affecting currency stability. Such fluctuations are common in the informal market.
What factors influence the exchange rates in Cuba's informal market?
Exchange rates in Cuba's informal market are influenced by supply and demand, government interventions, and economic conditions both domestically and internationally.
How does the Cuban government respond to the informal currency market?
The Cuban government often responds with crackdowns, including legal actions and communication campaigns to discredit independent sources like elTOQUE that publish currency exchange rates.