Havana — Cuba is in the middle of a deep energy crisis, and now private companies are stepping in to try to help.
For years, the government had full control over fuel imports and sales. But with shortages getting worse, authorities recently agreed to let private businesses import fuel on their own.
The crisis has been building for a long time. Cuba struggles with a lack of foreign currency, and things became even harder after oil shipments from Venezuela slowed down. On top of that, the United States has tightened sanctions and warned it could penalize countries that sell oil to Cuba.
Right now, diesel sales are suspended across the island, and gasoline is heavily rationed for the population of about 9.6 million people.
One private business owner told AFP that he bought an isotank — a large fuel container — through a state importer and plans to bring in nearly 25,000 liters of diesel from the United States. The shipment is being made under a license from the U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), which allows certain private imports despite sanctions.
Sources say other Cuban entrepreneurs are also trying to import diesel from nearby countries and even Europe.
Cuba produces some crude oil for its power plants, but it depends on imports for diesel and cooking gas. Diesel is especially important because it powers generators, transportation, farming, and even the water system.
Earlier this month, Deputy Prime Minister Oscar Perez-Oliva Fraga announced emergency measures to save electricity and fuel. He confirmed that companies would be allowed to buy fuel, but gave few details.
The businessman who spoke to AFP said there are no clear limits on how much fuel he can import. However, he is not allowed to resell it to others.
There are still many unanswered questions. Companies must pass safety checks approved by fire authorities, but officials themselves are not fully clear on all the steps required.
Business consultant Oniel Diaz said some entrepreneurs are already far along in the import process. He believes this move could create new opportunities for Cuba’s growing private sector, which the government began allowing in 2021.
But challenges remain. Businesses must find ways to make international payments, arrange transport, and avoid running into problems with U.S. policy — especially if Washington decides to tighten restrictions even more.
For now, private fuel imports offer a small sign of relief in a country struggling to keep the lights on.
