The New York Times reported that on March 2, at a meeting of the Council of Ministers - the highest authority of the government, Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel emphasized the need to quickly implement "the most urgent and necessary changes" to the current socio-economic model.
According to Cuban state media, President Miguel Díaz-Canel requested to grant more autonomy to localities and the private sector, promote foreign investment in the energy sector, and restructure the state apparatus.
Although the statements did not specify details, observers believe that this is a sign that Havana acknowledges the increasing pressure from Washington as well as the heavy impact of being tightened fuel supply.
Cuba is currently experiencing one of the most difficult periods in decades, with energy shortages, food inflation and public service cuts.
Earlier this year, the administration of President Donald Trump blocked fuel shipments from Venezuela - once Cuba's main oil supplier - and announced tariffs on any country that transports oil to this Caribbean island nation. This move almost cuts off Cuba's oil imports, exacerbating the long-standing power shortage.
Widespread power outages have almost paralyzed the economy. The Cuban government was forced to shorten school hours, postpone many surgeries at hospitals, cut public transport and limit gasoline sales.
Food prices increased sharply due to imported goods being stuck at the port, while domestic production has seriously declined in recent years.
President Díaz-Canel called for "macroeconomic stability", strengthening cooperation between local authorities and the private sector, and encouraging investment from the Cuban community abroad. He also urged to promote food production to reduce dependence on imports.
In the context of US sanctions, since 2021, Cuba has gradually opened up the private sector by allowing the establishment of hundreds of small and medium-sized enterprises, limiting a maximum of 100 workers per enterprise.
Recently, the scope of operation of this area has continued to expand to fields such as construction, garment, food processing, software development, small hotels, restaurants and private taxi services.
