In 2025, Mexico's oil shipments to Cuba accounted for approximately 17% of the island's energy requirements, a crucial amount amid a severe fuel crisis that exacerbates the daily blackouts plaguing the country.
The state-owned company Petróleos Mexicanos (Pemex) exported 15,000 barrels per day (bpd) of crude oil and 2,200 bpd of refined products last year, totaling 17,200 bpd. This data, reported by Pemex to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and cited by Reuters, valued these exports at around $500 million.
Mexico's shipments had already been on the rise the previous year. From January to September 2024, Pemex exported oil and derivatives to Cuba valued at approximately $500 million, averaging over 31,000 barrels daily of crude and nearly 2,900 of refined products. This affirmed Mexico's role as a key energy supplier to the island amid declining Venezuelan supplies.
Compared to Cuba's estimated consumption—around 100,000 bpd—Mexican exports cover about one-sixth of the national demand. Annually, this equates to roughly 6.3 million barrels against a total need of nearly 36.5 million.
This data is particularly significant given the current circumstances. After Venezuelan crude shipments halted in early 2026, Mexico emerged as a primary supplier to the island. The loss of energy support from Caracas has further strained Cuba's fragile electrical system, characterized by structural deficits and frequent power generation failures.
While Pemex's shipments do not satisfy the entire demand, their impact is crucial in maintaining the country's delicate energy balance. Cuba heavily relies on imported fuel, as domestic production meets only a limited portion of its needs.
The political implications of these Mexican exports are also noteworthy. U.S. President Donald Trump has warned of potential tariffs on countries supplying oil to Cuba, increasing pressure on Claudia Sheinbaum's government, which has defended these shipments as humanitarian aid.
Adding to this scenario is the financial burden of these shipments. Pemex has accumulated over $300 million in debt related to oil supplies to Cuba in recent years, according to an investigation based on official records.
Operations, primarily managed through the subsidiary Gasolinas Bienestar, have resulted in losses and increased the Mexican oil company's debt, raising concerns about the sustainability of this support amid its own economic challenges.
In a persistently scarce environment, that 17% does not solve the crisis but helps to prevent a more severe energy collapse on the island.
Key Aspects of Mexico's Oil Shipments to Cuba
Why are Mexico's oil shipments to Cuba significant?
Mexico's oil shipments are significant because they account for about 17% of Cuba's energy needs, providing crucial support during a severe fuel crisis and helping to alleviate daily blackouts.
What are the political implications of Mexico's oil exports to Cuba?
The political implications include potential U.S. tariffs on countries supplying oil to Cuba, adding pressure on Mexico's government, which defends these exports as humanitarian aid.
How has Pemex's debt affected its oil shipments to Cuba?
Pemex's debt, exceeding $300 million due to oil supplies to Cuba, has raised concerns about the sustainability of this support amid its own economic difficulties.