A few days before the release of Cuba’s new economic strategy to deal with the situation created by the COVID-19 pandemic, the first results of Resolution 315 to facilitate export and import services to the “non-state management” were in place. In total, nine contracts have been signed: three for exports and six for imports.
The Minister of Foreign Trade Rodrigo Malmierca updated viewers of the Mesa Redonda televised nightly show on the details and progress of the new resolution.
According to Minister Rodrigo, 37 specialized state enterprises already provide export and import services to non-state forms of management on the island.
Since September 7 more than 700 inquiries have been received for import or export operations.
Dozens of cooperatives and nearly 500 self-employed workers are already in negotiations, demonstrating the confidence they have in the new regulations.
Approximately 143 persons have indicated their interest to import or export a product or service. Minister Rodrigo explained that a way is being sought to meet the needs of this group.
The first export contract was signed by the non-agricultural cooperative “La Concordia” from Matanzas for engineering services with DINVAI for the Panamanian business “Cincuenta América Fachadas Panamá.”
Another 35 export contracts are in the advanced state of negotiation and include products such as charcoal, fresh and canned fruits and vegetables, ecological wood, ornamental birds, natural chemicals, honey soap, as well as computer services and software.
More than 60 import contracts are also being negotiated. The first was signed September 7, via email, between a self-employed worker from Villa Clara and the company QUIMPORT. The contract seeks to import R-134 gas, commonly used in climate equipment.
Other products of interest to private importers are: raw materials, fertilizers, pesticides, paints, chemicals, car spare parts, tires, computer media, graphic supplies, among others.
The possibility of accessing products that are already on consignment that marketed by the 37 companies designated for this purpose, is another advantage for private producers. This will not only save time but also lower the cost of the consignment operation already in existence. On the other hand, it will allow private producers to verify the quality and specifications of the products they wish to purchase.
As with any newly created business mechanism, the path has had its obstacles that need to be resolved. There have been delays with the banking process for MLC (foreign currency accounts) but the problems are being worked on.
PROCUBA, the office responsible for the private sector, state-owned businesses, and foreign investors offers marketing and commercial information services and training that will speed up the import/export process for the businesses.
David Urra is the chief marketing analyst at International Consulting & Representation Services/Cuba (IcarusCuba). He has produced market studies for a wide range of Latin American, European and U.S. clients exploring market entry possibilities in Cuba’s IT, tourism, ranching, pharmaceutical and manufacturing sectors.
