In two weeks, free importation of food, toiletries and medicines ends.

The government’s extension to free import of food and medicine expires in a few days. If this is not extended again, the general customs of the Republic will again be severed by travelers importing goods to the island.

A measure that allowed free imports of food, health supplies and medicine into Cuba has expired.

The extension, approved in June 2024, extends to September 30, 2024, and provides temporary relief to travelers entering the country with these products.
Regulatory conditions

The Ministry of Finance and Prices approved this exceptional regulation in 2021, which has been extended on several occasions. The measure establishes a value threshold of US$500 and 50 kilograms for imports made by air, sea or postal shipments.

Additionally, the first 30 dollars or 3 kilograms of value are exempt from tax, and an additional 30% rate is applied.

Rules for submission of articles

It is important that food, medicines and health products are kept separate from other goods when passing through customs.

The law also establishes that shipments must not exceed $200 or a total of 20 kilograms if sent by mail.

context and previous extensions

The regulations were introduced in July 2021 after the July 11 protests in response to the difficulty of accessing these essential items on the island. Since then, the government has extended its validity on several occasions due to food and medicine shortages.
Next steps

With the extension just days away, it is not known whether the government will extend the measure again or if the usual restrictions will be re-imposed. Those interested to take advantage of this regulation should be careful and make their exports or imports before September 30, 2024.