Cuba's Minister of Tourism, Juan Carlos García Granda, leveled accusations against the United States government this Wednesday. He claimed that the U.S. is attempting to "disconnect Cuba from the world" by exerting pressure on airlines, shipping companies, and international tour operators. This statement was made during the opening of FITCuba 2026.
The minister, speaking virtually at the 44th edition of the island's premier tourism fair, reiterated the regime's narrative, asserting that Washington enforces a "brutal blockade" along with an "economic, commercial, financial, and energy siege" aimed at stifling the country's development.
“Added to this are relentless smear campaigns and threats against airlines, shipping companies, and tour operators, all with the sole intent of isolating Cuba globally,” García Granda stated before entrepreneurs and industry representatives.
He acknowledged that Cuban tourism is confronting "unique challenges" in a complicated international landscape. However, he omitted mention of internal issues like power outages, food shortages, declining services, and the widespread economic turmoil that has plagued the nation in recent years.
During his address, García Granda emphasized an image of stability and resilience. He assured that destinations such as Havana and Varadero "remain open and operational," while promoting Varadero as a "seaweed-free beach" and one of the country's top tourist attractions.
The minister also revealed new initiatives to boost investments in the sector, including allowing Cubans living abroad to directly invest in tourism businesses "in any form," under conditions similar to those offered to foreign investors.
He also highlighted the growth of partnerships between state enterprises and private micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) and noted the regime's interest in expanding hotel management contracts and joint ventures.
FITCuba 2026 is taking place amid a continued decline in international tourism to the island, a critical sector for the Cuban government's foreign currency earnings. Despite the official optimistic rhetoric, the industry remains far from regaining its pre-pandemic levels.
Understanding U.S. Restrictions on Cuban Tourism
What are the main accusations made by Cuba against the U.S. regarding tourism?
Cuba accuses the U.S. of trying to disconnect it from the global tourism industry by pressuring airlines, shipping companies, and tour operators, alongside maintaining a severe blockade aimed at hampering the country's development.
How is the Cuban government trying to attract tourism investments?
The Cuban government plans to allow Cubans residing abroad to invest in the tourism sector under similar conditions as foreign investors, and is also fostering partnerships between state enterprises and private MSMEs.