Cuban Customs officials recently uncovered a stash of 24,150 euros concealed in the false bottom and side compartments of a traveler’s luggage at Havana's José Martí International Airport. This discovery was announced by Wiliam Pérez González, the institution's first deputy chief, on his X account.
Pérez González, who frequently serves as the spokesperson for customs operations, shared photographic evidence displaying bundles of 50-euro notes tucked inside travel bags and placed in an official tray marked with the "ADUANA CUBA CUSTOMS" seal.
The report stated that "administrative measures have been implemented, and the matter has been reported to the police for further investigation."
The amount seized exceeds the legal limit by more than fourfold; according to current Cuban regulations, individuals are allowed to export only up to 5,000 dollars or its equivalent in freely convertible currency without prior authorization from the president of the Central Bank of Cuba.
This incident is part of a series of similar seizures at the same airport in recent months. In April 2025, customs officials intercepted 26,000 euros hidden in a double bottom sealed with nylon, and in the same month, they confiscated over 16,000 Canadian dollars and euros concealed within the tubes of a suitcase.
In September 2025, agents discovered more than 23,000 dollars hidden in wet wipes, the double bottom of a backpack, and a traveler's belt. Additionally, in March 2025, there was an attempt to smuggle two kilograms of gold bars in a double-bottomed suitcase at the same location.
Methods of Concealment
The techniques used to conceal currency detected by customs authorities include double bottoms sealed with nylon, suitcase sides, internal luggage tubes, packages of wet wipes, diapers, and belts. This recurring pattern indicates a widespread practice of attempting to illegally export foreign currency from the country amidst a severe economic crisis and strict restrictions on foreign currency access on the Island.
In 2022, there were 233 infractions resulting in the confiscation of 5.3 million Cuban pesos and 420,000 dollars; in the first quarter of 2024, seizures amounted to 3.2 million pesos and 91,000 dollars.
The Cuban police continue to investigate this latest case.
Understanding Cuban Customs Regulations
What is the legal limit for exporting currency from Cuba?
Individuals are legally allowed to export up to 5,000 dollars or its equivalent in freely convertible currency without prior authorization from the Central Bank of Cuba's president.
How do customs officials detect concealed currency?
Authorities use various methods to detect concealed currency, including examining double bottoms of luggage, sides and internal tubes of suitcases, and other hiding spots like packages of wet wipes and belts.
What are the consequences of violating currency export regulations in Cuba?
Violators face administrative measures, and cases are reported to the police for further investigation. This can lead to the confiscation of the currency and possible legal action.