In recent months, there has been uncertainty about the possibility of continuing to bring food, medicines and hygiene products to Cuba without paying customs duties.
However, on June 27, 2024, the Cuban government decided to extend this measure until September 30, 2024. Below, we explain how this extension works and what you should keep in mind.
The decision is formalized in the Official Gazette No. 57 Ordinary of 2024, where several resolutions were published that affect all travelers who wish to bring these items to Cuba:
Resolution 211 of 2024 of the Ministry of Finance and Prices
This resolution establishes several important provisions:
Unlimited and tax-free import: Until 30 September 2024, passengers are allowed to bring food, medicines and toiletries with no value limit and without paying customs duties. However, these must always be non-commercial imports and the items must travel as accompanied baggage.
Import with value limit: Also until September 30, 2024, the importation of these products up to a value of USD 500 or an equivalent weight of 50 kg is permitted when they are unaccompanied baggage. This modality is also exempt from customs duties.
Increase in the limit for non-commercial shipments: The maximum value allowed for non-commercial imports by shipment is temporarily increased to USD 500, while maintaining the tax exemption for the first USD 30 or 3 kg of the shipment. Any excess will be taxed at 30%.
Conditions for postal shipments: Until September 30, 2024, the importation of these products by air, sea and postal shipments up to a value of 200 USD or a weight of 20 kg is authorized, without paying customs taxes.
Specific requirements: To take advantage of these benefits, items must be separated into separate packages from the rest of your luggage, both in the case of food and toiletries, as well as medicines and medical supplies.
Resolution 204 of 2024 of the Ministry of Public Health
This resolution reinforces the authorization to import medicines and medical supplies in their original packaging without value limits and without taxes, provided that they are non-commercial imports and up to the dates and conditions mentioned above.
Resolution 134 of 2024 of the General Customs of the Republic
Finally, this resolution temporarily suspends the weight assessment table for this type of products and establishes a new annex that will be applied until September 30, 2024.
In summary, Until September 30, 2024, you will be able to continue bringing food, medicine and hygiene products to Cuba without paying customs duties, as long as you comply with the specific conditions for each type of import. It is important to be aware of any changes that may arise after that date.
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