Cubans are witnessing the strange phenomenon of private imports of luxury cars despite the economic constraints facing the island.
Cuba Autos (@cuba_autos)’s TikTok profile shows that brands like Mercedes-Benz have a growing presence and seem to be trending among imported cars.
This profile is dedicated to sharing images and videos of newly acquired vehicles in Cuba, showcasing an impressive variety.
In addition to Mercedes-Benz, famous car brands such as Audi, Jeep, Mazda, and Chevrolet are imported to the island through imports by specific entities. Images often suggest high-end models from more developed markets.
The rise of these vehicles has sparked debate on social media. While some celebrate the opportunity to access top brands, others question how these cars can coexist with the economic situation of most Cubans.
The phenomenon highlights Cuba’s persistent inequalities and raises questions about import policies, associated costs and the future of the car market. It is clear that there is little luxury to be found on the streets of the island.
Luxury car imports to Cuba: What’s happening?
In recent months, the import and sale of cars in Cuba has been the subject of intense debate due to the introduction of new regulations and restrictions. These measures have significantly changed the island’s automotive industry, benefiting certain sectors and excluding others.
On January 1, 2025, Decree 119/24 entered into force, relaxing the commercialization of cars in Cuba and allowing individuals to purchase cars in US dollars.
This has led to an increase in demand, especially for luxury cars such as Mercedes-Benz. The brand’s Havana branch, operated by MCV Comercial SA, reported saturation with reservations since it opened on January 9.
These vehicles range in price from $51,000 to $190,000, highlighting the island’s growing economic polarization. Although the first car sale under this regulation was celebrated, a large portion of the Cuban population remains excluded from this market due to the unstable economic situation.
In addition to luxury cars, the market also includes vehicles from Chinese brands such as FAW, DFSK, Skywell, and Foton, with prices ranging from $16,000 to $46,000. Although these options have expanded the range of offerings, they remain out of reach for the majority of Cubans.
The new regulations also establish a more transparent hiring process, eliminating intermediaries and taking a more direct approach. Complete information about these offers is available in the catalog published by MCV Comercial SA.
However, recent regulations regarding car imports have introduced restrictions that complicate shipping from Miami. One of the main requirements is the submission of official authorization from the manufacturer to ensure technical support and spare parts.
This excluded many U.S. export agents that had been active since 2022. According to experts, these measures are aimed at concentrating the car market in state-owned companies such as CIMEX and Servicios Automotor SA (SASA), part of the military conglomerate GAESA. These organizations have historically dominated this field, limiting the participation of private actors.
The effects of these policies aroused criticism within and outside Cuba. Some see this as an opportunity to improve access to modern vehicles and diversify the market, while others interpret it as an attempt by the regime to tighten fiscal control amid a deep economic crisis. There is.
Although the situation continues to evolve, social discontent and the exclusion of key sectors portend an uncertain future for the Cuban car market.
Frequently asked questions about importing luxury cars to Cuba in 2025
Why is import of luxury cars increasing in Cuba?
The increase in imports of luxury cars in Cuba is due to the implementation of Decree 119/24, which relaxes regulations on car sales in the country and allows individuals to purchase cars in US dollars. This is of great interest, especially in luxury brands such as Mercedes-Benz.
What are the most imported luxury car brands in Cuba?
Cuba’s most imported luxury car brands include Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Jeep, Mazda, and Chevrolet. However, Mercedes-Benz appears to be the most popular among Cubans, according to social media posts and the catalog of Cuba’s MCV Commercial SA branch.
How will new regulations on car imports affect Cuba?
The new regulations have polarized the economy in Cuba, giving a small sector access to luxury cars while excluding the majority of the population, who live in precarious economic conditions, from this market. . These measures also concentrate the automobile market in state institutions and limit the participation of private companies.
How much do luxury cars cost in Cuba under the new regulations?
According to a catalog published by MCV Comercial SA, the prices of luxury cars in Cuba range from $51,000 to $190,000, but these are expensive for most Cubans whose average monthly salary barely covers their basic needs. The price is out of reach.
How will the new regulations affect export agents in Miami?
New regulations complicate imports from Miami, as they require formal permission from manufacturers to secure technical support and spare parts. This eliminates many U.S. export agents, making it even more difficult to ship cars to Cuba.
