The Cuban economy has long been shaped by various factors, including its political structure, historical trade relationships, and reliance on specific sectors like tourism. Tourism is one of Cuba’s most important economic drivers, with millions of visitors drawn annually to its unique cultural, historical, and natural attractions. However, recent years have seen both challenges and transformations within this sector, largely influenced by external factors like international relations and the pandemic, as well as internal reforms.

Cuban tourism is one of the most dynamic sectors with the greatest impact on the country’s economy, committed to becoming the locomotive that drives the development of the nation, says Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, the President of the Councils of State and Ministers.

We must recognize, he said, that we have been able to take on difficult challenges such as building a large hotel plant and opening up demanding markets in various parts of the world, but the support of the agencies in paying for quality products and services to tourism has not advanced with the same rhythm,

reports Juventud rebelde.

While most of the tourist facilities have Wi-Fi in the common areas, he said, the work at this time is aimed at offering the service in the rooms and other sites of the hotels.

Manuel Marrero Cruz, commented on the timely approval of the government to import, in the shortest possible time, with the own resources of the sector, the necessary equipment that allows to installation of Wi-Fi in all the areas of the hotels, beginning in the first stage by those categorized with four and five stars. With that decision, he said, there could be a definite boost to the issue and a significant change in customer satisfaction.

• READ MORE: Cuba starts rolling out internet on mobile phones

Perdomo Di-Lella said that work is also being done to provide broadband technology to the agencies that manage tourism, facilitate the use of roaming (a service that allows the visitor to use their telephone lines in Cuba) with lower prices, and cover mobile coverage the zones of silence that still remain in various parts of the country, both in tourist areas and in their access roads.

On the subject, Diaz-Canel considered that the communications sector should be thoroughly projected with a view to the development of tourism, for which it indicated carrying out a program to, in a short time, extend the areas where the Wi-Fi service is provided in the hotels. The new facilities that are being built, he reiterated, have to incorporate this technology as part of the concept of investment.

The Role of Tourism in Economic Growth

Tourism is one of the primary sources of foreign currency for Cuba, contributing significantly to the GDP and job creation. The sector supports various industries, including hospitality, transportation, retail, and cultural services. In particular, Cuban beaches, historic cities like Havana and Trinidad, and eco-tourism spots attract visitors from Canada, Europe, and parts of Latin America. Since the restoration of diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Cuba in 2014, there has been a notable surge in American visitors, though restrictions were re-imposed in 2017.

Future Prospects Cuban economy and tourism

Despite these challenges, Cuba’s tourism sector holds potential. Investments in digital tourism, eco-tourism, and expanding private accommodations could attract a new wave of visitors. Additionally, regional partnerships with Latin American and Caribbean countries may help strengthen tourism and trade resilience.

If you are planning a trip to Cuba, this eSIM is for you!