MIAMI, United States. – Exports of food and agricultural products from the United States to Cuba registered a growth of 37.4% in November 2024, according to a report published by the United States-Cuba Economic and Trade Council. In monetary terms, the exported value reached $39,384,920, a considerable increase compared to the $28,643,992 reported in the same month of 2023 and also exceeding the $33,085,677 in November 2022.
This increase consolidates Cuba as the 49th export market for agricultural and food products from the United States among a total of 223 international destinations. The figures reflect a sustained pattern of growth, since annual exports during 2024 totaled 391,962,167 dollars, which represents an increase of 31.8% compared to the 342,607,027 dollars registered in 2023.
Chicken thighs: the star product of bilateral trade
Among the exported products, frozen chicken thighs stand out as the most in demand, representing 34.6% of the total exported in November 2024, with a value of $13,643,412. Other important products include chicken meat in different presentations and frozen pork. Together, the 10 main exported products totaled 32,620,049 dollars, which is equivalent to 82.8% of the total value of exports for the month.
The report also details that American companies such as Air Cargo Express, AJC International and others based in Florida, Georgia and Massachusetts led shipments to the Island. These companies have specialized in the export of food under the regulatory framework of the Trade Sanctions Reform and Export Enhancement Act. (TSREEA), which allows the sale of agricultural and food products to Cuba through advance payments.
Factors behind growth in exports
Despite the limitations imposed by the US embargo, food trade between both countries has shown a significant rebound. This increase is explained, in part, by the regulatory framework that authorizes these transactions and by Cuba’s high dependence on imports to cover its food needs. According to data from the report, the country imports between 70% and 80% of the food it consumes.
The report also highlights that the lack of liquidity of the Cuban Government and the reduction of financial support from countries such as Venezuela and China have complicated Cuba’s ability to diversify its sources of supply. This has generated greater dependence on markets such as the United States, despite the political tensions between both nations.
Humanitarian donations: a complementary contribution
In addition to commercial exports, the report highlights a notable increase in humanitarian donations from the United States. Until October 2024, these reached a total value of 61,338,857 dollars, a figure that more than doubles the 30,083,306 dollars registered in 2022. These donations include food, health products, clothing and educational materials, which are transported to the Island mainly through sea containers and authorized flights.
Limitations and persistent challenges
Despite the positive figures, bilateral trade faces important limitations. Among them, the report mentions the Cuban government’s preference for making purchases from suppliers that offer more flexible payment conditions, such as BrazilCanada and Vietnam. Furthermore, political tensions between Washington and Havana remain an obstacle to further expansion of bilateral trade.
The report also criticizes the lack of transparency on the part of the Cuban Government in the distribution of imported products. Although it is stated that these goods are intended for the population, independent observers have pointed out that food and other supplies often do not reach the most vulnerable sectors.
