The U.S. dollar (USD) is continuing its upward trajectory in Cuba's informal market, reaching 448 Cuban pesos (CUP) this Tuesday, inching close to its highest valuation since early December when it hit 450 CUP.
This rise underscores a bullish trend triggered by the arrest of Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela, an event that has stirred political tension and economic instability across the region, directly impacting currency exchange rates on the island.
As reported by the independent observatory elTOQUE, the euro (EUR) remains steady at 485 CUP, while the Freely Convertible Currency (MLC) holds its ground at 400 CUP.
Current Exchange Rates in Cuba
Tuesday, January 6, 2026 - 09:15 AM
Exchange rate for the U.S. dollar (USD) to Cuban pesos (CUP): 448 CUP Exchange rate for the euro (EUR) to Cuban pesos (CUP): 485 CUP Exchange rate for the MLC to Cuban pesos (CUP): 400 CUP
The dollar's increase—three pesos more than on Monday—reflects a growing lack of trust in the Cuban peso (CUP) and a shift towards stronger currencies by the public amid economic and political uncertainty.
Social media users have linked this greenback surge to regional anxiety following the events in Caracas and the potential for a shift in relations between Havana and its energy ally, one of the main suppliers of oil to the regime.
Experts consulted by CiberCuba suggest that, aside from the immediate political ramifications, the dollar's rise is rooted in structural issues: liquidity shortages, escalating prices, and the ineffectiveness of the Central Bank's "floating rate" to stabilize the market.
With Tuesday's informal market exchange rates, the Cuban peso sinks further against foreign currencies, marking the start of a year overshadowed by uncertainty and diminishing purchasing power.
Impact of U.S. Dollar Surge in Cuba
Why is the U.S. dollar rising in Cuba?
The U.S. dollar is rising in Cuba due to regional political tensions, particularly the arrest of Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela, and a structural lack of liquidity in the Cuban economy.
What are the current exchange rates for USD, EUR, and MLC in Cuba?
As of January 6, 2026, the exchange rates in Cuba are: 448 CUP for USD, 485 CUP for EUR, and 400 CUP for MLC.
How does the rise of the dollar affect the Cuban economy?
The dollar's rise affects the Cuban economy by eroding the value of the Cuban peso, leading to increased economic uncertainty and reduced purchasing power for the population.