In contrast to the economic crisis afflicting Cuba, the island's streets appear… New luxury vehicles Which are making their way through the urban fabric, having been imported by small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) from the United States.
between the Car brands Most commonly seen in Cuban cities are Mercedes-Benz, GMC, Range Rover, BMW, Toyota, Kia and even the occasional attractive Mini Cooper.
In 2023, cars of all types are due Nearly $10 millionAccording to statistics from the US Cuban Economic and Trade Council (USCTEC).
The questions that these cars ask as they pass through Cuban streets resonate among citizens: Who are the wealthy people who can import these cars? What is the source of this extravagance?
The appearance of these cars unleashed a torrent of comments among residents. Many people wonder if this is it “ban?” They assert that the dictatorship is not telling the truth about the economic embargo imposed by the United States.
For most Cubans, it is incomprehensible that this exists Private entrepreneurs On the island with the resources to buy those cars, while others don't even have enough food.
There are those who claim to be the owners of these Luxury cars in Cuba They can only be the “goats of the government,” and others have no doubt that some SME owners will soon be subject to expropriation by the regime.
Meanwhile, in daily life, Cuban workers struggle with… Transportation difficultiesFood shortages and power outages are becoming more and more noticeable.
In 2023, the Cuban government announced regulations for the sale and import of vehicles, in an attempt to alleviate the transportation crisis. Later, a group of Miami business With a license from the US Treasury, they started a car import business for freelancers in Cuba.
It is important to highlight that Cuban government for saleFor individuals and small and medium businesses, many old cars are sold at high prices, for tens of thousands of dollars.
An old petrol Toyota with paint problems can cost $30,000 for an individual and $13,000 for someone who wants to purchase it through an MSME.
the Modern and expensive cars They are noticed in the country. Unresolved questions remain among the population, such as: Who are the new rich people in Cuba who can import these cars? Where does so much money come from?
