Cuba Opens Oil Industry to Private Investment Amid Energy Crisis

Cuba has opened its oil industry to private investment, including both domestic and foreign entities, as a means to address its deepening energy crisis. The new measures, outlined in Decree-Law 135/2026 and Decree 184/2026, allow authorized private businesses and foreign investors to participate in various aspects of the petroleum supply chain, such as refineries, fuel storage, and commercialization. While the government retains control over the sector, these changes represent a significant shift in Cuba's traditionally state-dominated energy industry. The move comes as Cuba faces severe fuel shortages, electricity blackouts, and economic instability, highlighting the urgent need for investment to modernize its energy infrastructure and improve fuel supplies.