What foods can be brought to Cuba and what imports are forbidden?

After the new measures for the non-commercial import of food, medicines and toiletries, Cuba maintains the prohibition of the entry to the country of fresh, frozen, dehydrated or salted meats, as well as fluid milk and unpasteurized dairy derivatives, due to existing sanitary regulations.

The Cuban Ministry of Agriculture (MINAG) published this Tuesday a group of special regulations for the entry of food of animal and vegetable origin, in line with the provisions approved days ago by the Cuban government regarding the import of basic products without limits or payment of customs tax, the Agencia Cubana de Noticias news agency reported.

The regulations explain that the entry to the island of canned bovine, pork and poultry meat, duly identified and of recognized trademarks, is authorized.

However, the source indicates that these products must come from the countries eligible for Cuba, either due to their current animal health situation or through agreements established between Official Veterinary Services. They are Spain, Portugal, the United States, Canada, Mexico, Panama, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Brazil, Argentina, Chile and Uruguay.

Other products produced in those countries, such as sausages and powdered milk, apply within the new measures adopted by the government after the massive July 11 protests and in the face of the persistent shortage of food and other basic products affecting Cubans.

Meanwhile, there is no origin limitation for canned seafood, UHT fluid, condensed, evaporated milk, and dairy desserts, pasteurized mature cheeses or made from ultra-pasteurized milk.

The regulation specifies that all products must be fully packaged, labeled, sealed and be of recognized brands. Likewise, it warns that the food whose packaging suffers some damage or deterioration, will be confiscated and incinerated.

These standards, based on the international regulations of the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE), aim to prevent the introduction into Cuba of biological agents that could cause disease in animals or people, the MINAG said.

Regarding foods of plant origin, the authorities determined that no plant health inspection or permits will be required to bring wines, spirits, juices, malted drinks, instant soups, fruit puree, vegetables and other canned products.

The same goes for roasted and salted fruits, grains and seeds, roasted or ground coffee, oils and lards, as well as frozen products and sugar.

Meanwhile, food that could contain pests such as pasta, grains, spices and nuts without shells, infusions and flours, will be subject to inspection.

According to the regulations, fresh fruits and vegetables do require a plant health import permit or a certificate issued by the National Plant Health Protection Organization.

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OnCuba Staff