US Boosts Fuel Exports to Cuba’s Private Sector

The United States is ramping up fuel exports to Cuba’s private sector, signaling a targeted economic strategy that differentiates between state-run enterprises and privately owned businesses, according to a Reuters exclusive report.

The Trump administration has enforced a de facto oil blockade on Cuba since January, aiming to pressure the government by restricting fuel supplies. However, an exception has been made for private businesses, allowing them access to limited fuel imports.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the policy is designed to prioritize independent entrepreneurs over entities linked to the Cuban government or military.

Since early February, approximately 30,000 barrels of fuel—equivalent to about 1.27 million gallons—have been shipped to private companies. While this represents only a fraction of Cuba’s estimated daily fuel needs of 100,000 barrels, the volume has been steadily increasing week by week.

Shipping data indicates that fuel is primarily transported in ISO tanks, with around 200 units delivered so far. Most shipments consist of diesel, with gasoline accounting for only a small share.

Fuel shipments have been carried aboard container ships traveling between Cuba and ports in the United States, Europe, and the Caribbean. Many vessels have docked at the port of Mariel, a key logistics hub west of Havana.

Data shows a growing number of shipments originating from the U.S. Gulf Coast, particularly from Louisiana, although many vessels also depart from Florida.

The new fuel flows have enabled some private businesses to resume operations after being severely impacted by shortages. Companies importing fuel include bakeries, wholesalers, and online retailers such as Supermarket23, which had previously suspended services due to the crisis.

With access to fuel, some businesses have restarted deliveries and stabilized operations, providing limited relief in an economy strained by energy shortages.

The U.S. Bureau of Industry and Security has authorized fuel exports specifically for eligible private-sector entities, with strict conditions. Imported fuel cannot be resold and must be used solely by the receiving businesses.

Both U.S. and Cuban authorities have implemented regulatory frameworks to ensure compliance, including safety standards for storage and distribution. Cuban firms have adopted measures such as on-site storage tanks and agreements to use existing infrastructure.

Despite the limited relief for private businesses, Cuba’s government continues to face severe fuel shortages. President Miguel Díaz-Canel recently stated that the country had not received fuel supplies for three months, without referencing private-sector imports.

The policy underscores Washington’s dual-track approach—tightening economic pressure on the state while fostering limited private-sector resilience.