The Ministry of Internal Trade (MINCIN) in Cuba has introduced Resolution 23/2026, a new framework to classify commercial establishments across the country. This regulation, released on Friday, categorizes stores into three distinct levels based on their quality and comfort: High Level, Medium Level, and Neighborhood or Local Stores.
Published in the Official Gazette of the Republic of Cuba, No. 69 Ordinary of 2026, dated August 28, the resolution spans pages 37 to 43. It replaces the previous Resolution 139, which had been in effect since October 23, 2019, and handled the Typological Classifier of Retail Network Establishments.
Underpinned by Decree 167 "On Internal Trade," approved on August 7, 2026, Article 9 mandates that all commercial entities adhere to the classification system established by MINCIN.
The resolution specifies that establishments are classified according to their commercial activities, quality, and comfort levels. It further categorizes seven types of establishments based on their functions: merchandise sales, gastronomic services, personal services, technical and commercial services for domestic use, accommodation, among others.
For merchandise sales, the regulation differentiates between various types of outlets, such as markets, mini-markets—which include grocery stores, butcheries, and fish markets—shopping centers or plazas, concentration zones, bakeries and pastry shops, department stores, specialized shops, and online stores.
High-Level establishments are required to provide "maximum excellence in comfort, luxurious furnishings, and a highly trained sales force," as outlined by the resolution. This standard affects both individuals and legal entities engaged in commercial activities under MINCIN's governance.
Regarding the transition to this new system, the resolution permits the existing classification of each establishment to remain active until its current commercial license expires. Additionally, heads of organs and agencies within the Central State Administration have a 90-day period to approve internal classification procedures.
Resolution 23/2026 is part of a broader regulatory package published in the same Gazette No. 69, which includes seven additional regulations on internal trade. Among these are Resolution 15/2026, which addresses the liberalization of wholesale trade, and Resolution 24/2026, detailing technical requirements for commercial activities.
These measures are a component of the Economic and Social Transformations ratified by the Cuban government in June 2026. The reform package, comprising 176 measures, aims to partially reorganize the economy with a focus on internal trade as a priority sector for reform.
Understanding Cuba's New Commercial Classification System
What are the new categories for Cuban stores according to MINCIN?
MINCIN has categorized stores into three levels: High Level, Medium Level, and Neighborhood or Local Stores, based on quality and comfort.
How does Resolution 23/2026 impact existing stores?
Existing stores will maintain their current classification until their commercial licenses expire, after which they must comply with the new system.
What types of establishments are defined under the new classification?
The classification includes seven types: merchandise sales, gastronomic services, personal services, technical and commercial services for domestic use, accommodation, and others.