The Ministry of Economy and Planning (MEP) reiterated on its institutional Facebook profile that economic actors are legally obliged to accept bank transfers as a form of payment, in compliance with the current provisions of the Central Bank of Cuba.

Resolution 111/2023, published in the Official Gazette on 2 August 2023, sets a maximum limit of five thousand pesos per transaction in cash between economic actors. Any payment above this amount must be made by transfer or electronic channel.

Decree-Law 91 of 2024, «On Offences in the Exercise of Self-Employment, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and Non-Agricultural Cooperatives», establishes sanctions for those who fail to comply with the regulations.

Fines range from 20 to 40 quotas for small businesses, and from 40 to 60 quotas for MSMEs and cooperatives, with amounts that can reach up to 60,000 pesos.

In cases of reoffending or serious violations, measures include temporary suspension or permanent cancellation of the licence, as well as full or partial closure of the business.

The MEP reminded that the use of QR codes linked to personal accounts constitutes tax evasion, as it prevents the National Tax Administration Office (ONAT) from controlling operations. Digital payment must always be made through the declared tax bank account.

To report a refusal to accept transfers, citizens can contact the Single Trade Helpline (800-22624), the Central Bank of Cuba (800-22622), the email address consumidor@mincin.aguiar.cu, or the Citizen Care Department (7 868 3549).

Provincial authorities report that bankingisation commissions handle complaints in the territories and have imposed measures on offenders; they encourage seeking information about other territorial contacts on a case-by-case basis. More than 475 establishments across the country have been closed for failing to comply with the regulations.