Cuba has temporarily lifted import duties on food, medicine and other essentials following recent unrest. As of next Monday, there will be no limit on such goods brought in by travelers until the end of the year.
Thousands took to the streets on Sunday in protests over food and medicine shortages, price increases and the government’s handling of Covid-19. One demand they had was for people arriving in Cuba to bring in supplies without paying customs duties.
Dozens have been arrested nationwide since the unrest began on Sunday and authorities confirmed on Tuesday that one man had died. Unauthorized demonstrations are illegal in the country, and anti-government protests are rare.
Currently travelers to Cuba can bring up to 10kg of medicine into the country tax-free. However, they must pay customs duties on the limited amount of food and personal hygiene supplies they are allowed to bring in. It is unclear the effect such a customs change will have.
