Fuel shipments from the US to Cuban private companies: a drop in the desert that angers the exile community

"The shipments, which recent reports estimate at around 30,000 barrels so far this year, are far from meeting Cuban demand, but they have been more than enough to unleash harsh criticism from the exile community, among those who believe this move could indirectly provide a lifeline to the Havana regime."

"Last month, the Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) reiterated that the U.S. embargo against Cuba does allow the sale of fuel directly to private businesses on the island."

"Under this regulation, private companies on the island, known as MSMEs (micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises), are the final recipients of the fuel shipped from the U.S., although the import is carried out through Cuban state-owned companies."

"The process took him between two and three weeks, Garcia says. The fuel is transported in specialized tanker containers that carry up to 24,000 liters. Everything is strictly regulated by OFAC."

Fuel shipments from South Florida to Cuba have gained momentum, with around 30,000 barrels shipped this year. These shipments have drawn criticism from the exile community, fearing they may support the Cuban regime. The U.S. has tightened fuel supply restrictions, raising concerns about a humanitarian crisis. However, the Treasury Department allows fuel sales to private businesses on the island, with state-owned companies handling imports. Miami-based companies like Flash Kingz are licensed to trade with Cuba, following strict regulations from the Office of Foreign Assets Control.

Read at english.elpais.com