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Exchange Rate in Cuba Today: Informal Market Sees Rise in Currency Value

Sunday, March 1, 2026 by Isabella Sanchez

The United States dollar (USD) is valued at 510 Cuban pesos (CUP) in the informal market as of March 1, 2026, according to the daily monitoring by elTOQUE.

In Cuba's economic landscape, characterized by scarcity and persistent inflation, the American dollar remains the primary benchmark for currency transactions. The demand for dollars persists, driven by those needing to import goods, save against the peso's devaluation, or emigrate.

Meanwhile, the euro (EUR) is trading at 570 CUP, solidifying its position as the most valuable foreign currency on the parallel market. This disparity compared to the dollar is due to limited supply and interest from individuals receiving remittances from Europe.

Additionally, the Freely Convertible Currency (MLC) is currently exchanged at 410 CUP, having increased by five pesos compared to the previous day. Although its demand is lower than that of the dollar and euro, it remains significant for local purchases.

Current Informal Exchange Rates in Cuba

The following are the current exchange rates in Cuban pesos (CUP) as of today:

USD to CUP: 510 CUP

  • 1 USD = 510 CUP
  • 5 USD = 2,550 CUP
  • 10 USD = 5,100 CUP
  • 20 USD = 10,200 CUP
  • 50 USD = 25,500 CUP
  • 100 USD = 51,000 CUP

EUR to CUP: 570 CUP

  • 5 EUR = 2,850 CUP
  • 10 EUR = 5,700 CUP
  • 20 EUR = 11,400 CUP
  • 50 EUR = 28,500 CUP
  • 100 EUR = 57,000 CUP
  • 200 EUR = 114,000 CUP
  • 500 EUR = 285,000 CUP

Understanding Cuba's Informal Currency Market

Why is the USD so important in Cuba's market?

The USD is crucial in Cuba's market as it serves as a stable reference for transactions, especially in a context of economic instability and inflation. It is also sought after for importing goods, saving against the peso's devaluation, and for those looking to emigrate.

What factors contribute to the euro's higher value compared to the USD?

The euro's higher value in Cuba's informal market is attributed to its limited availability and the demand from individuals receiving remittances from Europe, making it more valuable than the USD in this context.

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