Trade restrictions on Cuba were first introduced by the US in 1960 following the communist revolution. It continues to operate a combination of Specially Designated Nationals and trade restrictions targeting the government. Having been significantly relaxed under President Obama (2009-17), President Trump (2017-2021) oversaw a renewed tightening of measures, which has continued under current President Biden.
Sanction Name
Implementation Of The Cuban Democracy Act
First Imposed
Last updated
Targets
Specially Designated National:
• Members of the Cuban government.
• Some entities under the control of, or which act on behalf of, the Cuban Military, intelligence and security services.
Trade Restriction and Travel Ban:
• Prohibits direct financial transactions between US citizens and Cuban nationals. This includes so-called “U-Turn transactions”, relating to transactions originating and terminating outside the US, which have been prohibited since September 2019.
• Prohibits travel to Cuba by US citizens.
Exemptions
1. Certain transactions related to Cuban pharmaceuticals, medical research and humanitarian-related services are authorised.
2. Travel to Cuba by US citizens is allowed for a small number of defined purposes.
3. Remittances to Cuban citizens of up to $1,000 per quarter are allowed, although remittances to Cuban officials or Cuban Communist Party members are prohibited. Entities identified as being controlled by the Cuban military are banned from receiving remittances.
