Cuba Takes Emergency Measures: Hotels Close and Tourists Relocated Amid Fuel Crisis

The Cuban government has initiated the closure of several hotels and the relocation of tourists due to a severe fuel shortage exacerbated by U.S. sanctions. Vice Prime Minister Oscar Pérez-Oliva Fraga announced a plan to reduce energy consumption in the tourism sector, particularly affecting facilities in Varadero and northern cays. The tourism industry, which has seen a drastic decline since 2018, recorded only 1.8 million international visitors in 2025, marking the lowest since 2002. This crisis is part of a broader economic struggle, with the government implementing emergency measures including fuel rationing and prioritizing telework. The situation highlights the critical role of tourism in Cuba's economy and the ongoing challenges posed by international relations and domestic infrastructure failures.

Key Details: • Hotels in Varadero and northern cays are being closed and tourists relocated. • Cuba's tourism sector recorded only 1.8 million visitors in 2025, the lowest since 2002. • Emergency measures include fuel rationing, prioritizing telework, and semi-presential classes in universities. • The government is drawing on historical plans from the 'Special Period' for crisis management.