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Dollar Rises in Cuba's Informal Market: Monday's Currency Rates Revealed

Monday, January 19, 2026 by Charlotte Gomez

Today, the U.S. dollar is trading at 490 Cuban pesos (CUP) in Cuba's informal market, according to rates published by elTOQUE.

The American currency has increased by two pesos compared to the previous day. It remains the most sought-after currency among Cubans, particularly for those who rely on remittances or need to purchase imported goods. This valuation highlights the ongoing devaluation of the peso and the scarcity of foreign currency on the island.

This Monday, the euro is valued at 525 CUP, making it the most expensive currency in the parallel market. The 35-peso difference compared to the dollar underscores many Cubans' preference to keep savings in the European currency, which is considered more stable amid international market fluctuations.

Meanwhile, the Freely Convertible Currency (MLC) is holding steady at 400 CUP, showing slight stability after weeks of fluctuations. Despite its digital use, it continues to be crucial for accessing basic products in stores controlled by the regime.

Currency Exchange Rates in Cuba: January 19, 2026

Monday, January 19, 2026 - 06:00 AM

Exchange rate for the dollar (USD) to Cuban pesos (CUP): 490 CUP

Exchange rate for the euro (EUR) to Cuban pesos (CUP): 525 CUP

Exchange rate for the (MLC) to Cuban pesos (CUP): 400 CUP

Dollar and Euro to Cuban Peso Conversion

U.S. Dollar (1 USD = 490 CUP)

$1 = 490 CUP

$5 = 2,450 CUP

$10 = 4,900 CUP

$20 = 9,800 CUP

$50 = 24,500 CUP

$100 = 49,000 CUP

Euro (1 EUR = 525 CUP)

€5 = 2,625 CUP

€10 = 5,250 CUP

€20 = 10,500 CUP

€50 = 26,250 CUP

€100 = 52,500 CUP

€200 = 105,000 CUP

Understanding Currency Exchange in Cuba

Why is the U.S. dollar highly demanded in Cuba?

The U.S. dollar is in high demand in Cuba because many Cubans rely on remittances and need the currency to purchase imported goods, reflecting the scarcity of foreign currency on the island.

How does the euro's value compare to the dollar in Cuba's market?

In Cuba, the euro is valued higher than the dollar, with a difference of 35 pesos, making it the most expensive currency in the informal market. This reflects its perceived stability amid global economic fluctuations.

What role does the Freely Convertible Currency (MLC) play in Cuba's economy?

The MLC is crucial for accessing basic goods in government-controlled stores, despite its digital nature. It has recently shown slight stability in its exchange rate.

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