Cuba urged to reform economic model as energy crisis deepens

Cuba’s President Miguel Díaz-Canel has instructed an “immediate” push to reform the country’s economic and social model as oil reserves dwindle and fuel supply disruptions intensify.

Speaking to the Council of Ministers in Havana, Díaz-Canel linked reforms to greater business and municipal autonomy, resizing state institutions, and encouraging investment, including from Cubans abroad.

“We must focus, immediately, on implementing the urgent, most necessary transformations that must be made to the economic and social model,” he was quoted as saying by state-owned media.

Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz said priorities include boosting food production and stabilising Cuba’s power grid amid continued outages.

Energy officials report municipal transition strategies lagging despite solar panel distribution.

Key developments

• Oil and fuel shortages worsen after halted Venezuelan shipments and external pressures.

• Municipal autonomy and investment reforms central to government strategy.

• Food security and electricity infrastructure flagged as urgent domestic priorities.

• Energy crisis persists despite slight easing of oil export restrictions.

ℹ️ AP News