The United States dollar is currently valued at 548 Cuban pesos (CUP) according to the reference rate from elTOQUE. This American currency is in high demand among Cubans, primarily for emigration purposes and to purchase essential goods such as food, medicines, and other basic necessities.
Meanwhile, the euro has reached 625 CUP, establishing itself as the most valuable foreign currency on the island. The rising demand for euros is largely driven by travel to Europe and the desire of many Cubans to protect their savings against inflation and the depreciating value of the Cuban peso.
On the other hand, the Freely Convertible Currency (MLC) is trading at 410 CUP in the informal market this Monday. Although its value remains below that of the dollar and the euro, it continues to be a crucial reference for purchases in state-run establishments in Cuba.
Current Exchange Rates in Cuba
As of Monday, May 18, 2026, the informal exchange rates are as follows:
- USD to CUP: 548 CUP
- EUR to CUP: 625 CUP
- MLC to CUP: 410 CUP
Currency Conversion for Cuban Pesos
Here are the equivalent values for various denominations in Cuban pesos:
United States Dollar (USD)
- 1 USD = 548 CUP
- 5 USD = 2,740 CUP
- 10 USD = 5,480 CUP
- 20 USD = 10,960 CUP
- 50 USD = 27,400 CUP
- 100 USD = 54,800 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
Understanding Cuba's Currency Market
Why is the US dollar in high demand in Cuba?
The US dollar is highly sought after in Cuba because it is used for migration purposes and to purchase essential goods like food and medicine, which are difficult to obtain with the local currency.
What factors are influencing the euro's value in Cuba?
The euro's value in Cuba is influenced by increased travel to Europe and the need for Cubans to safeguard their savings from inflation and the devaluation of the Cuban peso.
How is the MLC used in Cuba?
The MLC, although valued below the dollar and euro, serves as a key benchmark for transactions in state-run stores across Cuba.