This Friday, the U.S. dollar opened at 545 Cuban pesos (CUP) in Cuba's informal currency exchange market. It remains the primary currency for thousands of Cubans reliant on remittances or in need of purchasing essential goods.
The American currency continues to trade at high levels amid the nation's inflation and cash shortages.
Meanwhile, the euro is being traded at 625 CUP today, establishing itself as the highest-valued foreign currency in Cuba's black market. The demand for euros continues to rise among travelers and expatriates, with the European currency maintaining a significant lead over the dollar.
The Freely Convertible Currency (MLC) is priced at 430 CUP this Friday. Although its value is lower than that of the dollar and euro, it remains crucial for purchases in state-run stores stocked with foreign goods.
Current Black Market Exchange Rates in Cuba
Friday, May 15, 2026 - 07:00
Exchange rate for U.S. dollar (USD) to Cuban pesos (CUP): 545 CUP
Exchange rate for euro (EUR) to Cuban pesos (CUP): 625 CUP
Exchange rate for MLC to Cuban pesos (CUP): 430 CUP
Approximate Currency Equivalents in Cuban Pesos (CUP)
U.S. Dollar (USD)
1 USD = 545 CUP
5 USD = 2,725 CUP
10 USD = 5,450 CUP
20 USD = 10,900 CUP
50 USD = 27,250 CUP
100 USD = 54,500 CUP
Euro (EUR)
5 EUR = 3,125 CUP
10 EUR = 6,250 CUP
20 EUR = 12,500 CUP
50 EUR = 31,250 CUP
100 EUR = 62,500 CUP
200 EUR = 125,000 CUP
500 EUR = 312,500 CUP
FAQs on Currency Exchange in Cuba's Black Market
Why is the U.S. dollar so important in Cuba?
The U.S. dollar is crucial in Cuba because many Cubans rely on remittances from abroad to purchase essential goods, making it a key currency in the informal market.
What factors contribute to the high demand for euros in Cuba?
The demand for euros in Cuba is driven by travelers and expatriates, as well as its significant exchange rate advantage over the U.S. dollar.
How does the MLC fit into Cuba's economy?
MLC is used primarily in state-run stores that sell goods in foreign currency, making it an important part of Cuba’s retail economy despite its lower exchange rate compared to the dollar and euro.