Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum stated that she is considering restarting oil shipments to Cuba, following the Cuban government's recent implementation of free-market reforms. This move aims to alleviate the economic difficulties faced by Cuba, which has been significantly impacted by an oil blockade imposed during the Trump administration. Sheinbaum indicated that oil would be sent through commercial and privately owned firms rather than state-owned companies, as was done previously. She expressed hope that commercial transport could resume soon.
Cuba has been experiencing an energy and humanitarian crisis, exacerbated by U.S. isolation efforts aimed at regime change. The Trump administration's blockade has limited oil shipments to the island, with only one shipment arriving since the blockade began—a Russian tanker carrying 730,000 barrels in late March. Mexico had previously been Cuba's largest oil supplier until shipments were halted due to the U.S. embargo.
In response to economic pressures, the Cuban government recently enacted significant reforms, allowing for increased private business activity and reduced state intervention. Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel emphasized the need for increased production and fewer restrictions. The reforms include measures to facilitate private businesses, imports, and exports, as well as the establishment of private banks and investment opportunities for Cubans abroad.
Sheinbaum aims to leverage these reforms and collaborate with Mexican business owners already operating in Cuba. The ongoing fuel crisis has resulted in rolling blackouts, rising food prices, and public health challenges, as essential services have been disrupted. The United Nations has reported that Cuba's humanitarian needs remain critical, with healthcare services severely affected by the fuel shortage. Sheinbaum also mentioned that Mexico would continue to provide humanitarian aid to Cuba.