US Ramps Up Fuel Exports to Cuba's Private Sector

Shipments aim to boost private businesses over state-run enterprises

Mar. 25, 2026 at 2:01pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The United States has been enforcing a de facto oil blockade against Cuba, but has made an exception for the country's small private sector. Since January, the U.S. has shipped approximately 30,000 barrels of fuel to private Cuban businesses, equivalent to over one tenth of a typical fuel tanker's capacity. This suggests a Trump administration plan to give private businesses a leg up over state-run enterprises is underway, though the volumes are still a fraction of Cuba's overall fuel needs.

Why it matters

The fuel exports to Cuba's private sector are part of a broader Trump administration policy to support private businesses over state-run enterprises in the Communist-run country. This could have significant implications for the Cuban economy and power dynamics, as the private sector has historically been suppressed.

The details

The U.S. fuel exports to Cuba's private firms come with a caveat - if the private sector is found diverting the fuel to the Cuban regime or military, the licenses will be canceled. Private companies are implementing tight controls to ensure the fuel is only used by the importing parties. The fuel arrives primarily in ISO tanks and is mostly diesel, with only 1% being gasoline.

  • Since January, the U.S. has been enforcing a de facto oil blockade against Cuba.
  • Around 30,000 barrels of fuel have been shipped to Cuba's private sector so far this year.
  • In February, the U.S. Bureau of Industry and Security released guidance authorizing exports of U.S. gas and petroleum products to eligible Cuban private-sector entities.

The players

Marco Rubio

U.S. Secretary of State who has said authorizing the fuel exports fits with a broader Trump administration policy to put the private sector and individual private Cubans in a privileged position.

Miguel Diaz-Canel

Cuban President who said last week the island had not received any fuel in three months, but made no reference to the private sector supplies.

Supermarket23

A larger online shop in Cuba that has imported fuel, allowing it to resume delivery services after initially being paralyzed by the fuel blockade.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.