The Cuban Ministry of Finance and Prices (MFP) has denied circulating rumors about terminating the customs exemption for importing food, personal hygiene products, and medical supplies without taxes.
This clarification follows widespread social media posts suggesting the exemption would end on February 1st.
In a statement released on its Facebook page and echoed by the official outlet Cubadebate, the ministry affirmed that the exemption will remain in effect until January 31, 2026.
The MFP clarified that "no decision has been made to change the exceptional tax treatment currently in place," and any updates will be communicated through official channels.
However, the statement did not specify whether the policy will be extended, leaving citizens hopeful for a continuation given the ongoing shortages of medicine and food.
Originally established during the pandemic and extended multiple times due to supply shortages, this exemption allows travelers or parcel shipments to bring in food, medicine, and hygiene items without commercial intent or tariffs.
The ministry emphasized that its goal is to "facilitate public access to essential goods" amid challenging economic conditions.
The denial responds to reports from unofficial websites like News 360, which claimed the exemption would end in February 2026, potentially raising the cost of family shipments and travelers' luggage immediately.
These reports warned that the change would mean "a return to the traditional customs scheme, with charges based on value and weight," directly affecting families reliant on external support.
Although the MFP has reiterated there are no immediate changes, the issue continues to concern Cubans, for whom personal imports are among the few ways to obtain basic products.
The persistent shortages, internal high prices, and lack of transparency in official communications fuel skepticism about each government announcement.
Understanding Cuban Customs Exemptions
What is the current status of Cuba's customs exemption for essential goods?
The customs exemption for importing food, medicine, and hygiene products without taxes is still in effect and will remain so until January 31, 2026, according to the Cuban Ministry of Finance and Prices.
How did the Cuban government respond to rumors about ending the exemption?
The government refuted these rumors by issuing a statement through the Ministry of Finance and Prices, confirming the continuation of the exemption and promising to inform the public of any future changes through official channels.
Why is there concern over the potential end of this customs exemption?
Many Cubans rely on personal imports as a crucial means of obtaining essential goods due to persistent shortages and high internal prices. The potential end of the exemption raises concerns about accessibility and affordability.