This Friday, the U.S. dollar surged in Cuba's informal market, reaching a new peak of 555 CUP, which is five pesos higher than the previous day, according to the reference rate provided by elTOQUE.
The rise sets a new record for the dollar's price and comes amid heightened political tensions between Cuba and the United States, in a climate of persistent uncertainty and ongoing shortages on the island.
The increase in the value of the greenback underscores the relentless pressure on the Cuban peso and the declining purchasing power of the Cuban people.
Meanwhile, the euro experienced a decline, trading at 630 CUP today, down ten pesos from the previous day when it was exchanged at 640 CUP. Despite remaining one of the most sought-after currencies in Cuba, the European currency showed a slight decrease in the informal buying and selling activities conducted this Friday.
The Freely Convertible Currency (MLC) also saw a drop in the informal market. On Friday, it was valued at 400 CUP, representing a 10-peso decrease from the day before when it was traded at 410 CUP. Despite the decline, the MLC remains crucial for accessing essential goods in state-run stores.
Informal Exchange Rates in Cuba
Friday, May 22, 2026 - 07:51
Exchange rate of the dollar (USD) to Cuban pesos (CUP): 555 CUP
Exchange rate of the euro (EUR) to Cuban pesos (CUP): 630 CUP
Exchange rate of the (MLC) to Cuban pesos (CUP): 400 CUP
Currency Conversion to Cuban Pesos (CUP)
Dollar (USD → CUP)
1 USD = 555 CUP
5 USD = 2,775 CUP
10 USD = 5,550 CUP
20 USD = 11,100 CUP
50 USD = 27,750 CUP
100 USD = 55,500 CUP
Euro (EUR → CUP)
5 EUR = 3,150 CUP
10 EUR = 6,300 CUP
20 EUR = 12,600 CUP
50 EUR = 31,500 CUP
100 EUR = 63,000 CUP
200 EUR = 126,000 CUP
500 EUR = 315,000 CUP
Understanding Cuba's Informal Currency Market
Why has the U.S. dollar reached a record high in Cuba's informal market?
The U.S. dollar has hit an unprecedented high due to increased political tensions between Cuba and the United States, combined with ongoing economic uncertainty and shortages in the country.
How does the decline of the euro affect the Cuban economy?
The decline in the euro's value impacts the Cuban economy by potentially decreasing purchasing power in European markets, although it remains one of the most demanded currencies in Cuba.
What role does the Freely Convertible Currency (MLC) play in Cuba?
The MLC is crucial for purchasing basic goods in state-owned stores, despite its recent drop in value in the informal market.