Despite Requesting Two Delays, DOJ Will File Brief To Court Of Appeals- Will DOJ Answer All Six Questions From Court? Answers Could Impact All Libertad Act Lawsuits.

MARIO DEL VALLE, ENRIQUE FALLA, MARIO ECHEVARRIA V. EXPEDIA, INC., HOTELS.COM L.P., HOTELS.COM GP, ORBITZ, LLC, BOOKING.COM B.V., BOOKING HOLDINGS INC.  Initial defendants were: TRIVAGO GMBH, BOOKING.COM B.V., GRUPO HOTELERO GRAN CARIBE, CORPORACION DE COMERCIO Y TURISMO INTERNACIONAL CUBANACAN S.A., GRUPO DE TURISMO GAVIOTA S.A., RAUL DOE I-5, AND MARIELA ROE 1-5, [1:19-cv-22619 Southern Florida District; 20-12407 11th Circuit Court of Appeals] 

Rivero Mestre LLP (plaintiff)
Manuel Vazquez, P.A. (plaintiff)
Baker & McKenzie, LLP (defendant)
Scott Douglass & McConnico (defendant)
Akerman (defendant)

Notice of Amicus Participation By The United States (3/22/22)
Link To Libertad Act Lawsuit Filing Statistics

On Appeal from the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida .  BEFORE: JORDAN, NEWSOM, and BURKE,* District Judge.  ORDER: The Court invites the United States – through the Attorney General, the Solicitor General, and/or the Office of the Legal Adviser to the State Department –to file an amicus brief in Mario Del Valle, et al., v. Trivago GMBH, et al., No.20-12407 (argued Oct. 4, 2021), Javier Garcia-Bengochea v. Carnival Corporation, No. 20-12960 (argued Oct. 4, 2021), and Javier Garcia-Bengochea v. Royal Caribbean Cruises, LTD., No. 20-14251 (argued Oct. 4, 2021), pursuant to Fed.R.App.P. 29(a)....The Court invites the United States to address the following questions concerning the Helms-Burton Act, 22 U.S.C. § 6082:...The court asks that the U.S. file its amicus brief by 2/25/22... AJ, KCN and LCB (See attached order for complete text) [20-12407, 20-12960, 20-14251] [Entered: 12/20/2021 04:48 PM].  The Court invites the United States to address the following questions concerning the Helms-Burton Act, 22 U.S.C. § 6082:

1. Does the term “United States national” in 22 U.S.C. §§ 6082(a)(4)(B) and 6082(a)(4)(C) refer to the plaintiff bringing the action, or the original claimant to the confiscated property, or both?

2. What does the word “acquire[ ]” in 22 U.S.C. § 6082(a)(4)(B) mean? Is inheritance encompassed in the term “acquire[ ]?” And if “acquire[ ]” does include inheritance, at what point is a claim “acquire[d]” by an heir within the meaning of the statute?

3. How, if at all, does the phrase “assignment for value” in 22 U.S.C. §6082(a)(4)(C) affect the pool of eligible claimants compared to the pool of eligible claimants under 22 U.S.C. §6082(a)(4)(B)?

4. What effect, if any, does the President’s ability to suspend Title III pursuant to 22 U.S.C. § 6085(b) have on defining the class of eligible claimants who can bring an action under 22 U.S.C. § 6082(a)(4)? Does the President’s ability to suspend Title III imply that the statute was drafted to allow the heirs of American citizens – whose property was unlawfully confiscated and “trafficked” by third parties – to bring claims under 22 U.S.C. § 6082(a)(4)?

5. What effect, if any, does the lawful travel exception, 22 U.S.C. §6023(13)(B)(iii), have on the plaintiffs’ claims? What effect, if any, does the possibility that the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) can change the permissible reasons for travel to Cuba have on the lawful travel exception?

6. What does the phrase “incident to lawful travel” in 22 U.S.C. §6023(13)(B)(iii) mean? Who or what defines “lawful travel” (e.g. OFAC)? What guidance should persons and entities look to in determining whether their activities are “incident to lawful travel?”

The Court asks that the United States file its amicus brief by February 25, 2022, at which time the parties in the cases will be permitted to respond. Should the United States elect not to file an amicus brief, it should so notify the Court by January 25, 2022.

U.S. ATTORNEY GENERAL
UNITED STATES SOLICITOR GENERAL
OFFICE OF THE LEGAL ADVISER, U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (Southern District Attorneys)

“ORDER: The motion filed by the United States for an extension of time, up to and including April 11, 2022, to file the amicus brief is GRANTED. The motion for an extension to March 11, 2022, to notify the Court that the United States elects not to file an amicus brief is GRANTED.” 

Links To Related Posts 

U.S. Department Of Justice Requests And Is Granted Until 11 March 2022 To Decide Whether To Submit Answers To Six Questions To Court Of Appeals.  February 01, 2022 

Court Of Appeals "Invites" Biden-Harris Administration To Answer Six Questions In Libertad Act Lawsuits That May Impact More Than Cuba Lawsuits. Will They Answer? Due By 25 January 2022.  December 31, 2021  

American Airlines Libertad Title III Lawsuit Becomes First To Seek Review By United States Supreme Court. Twenty-Nine Months From District Court To SCOTUS Is Fast.  December 20, 2021 

11th Circuit Court Of Appeals Hearing Recording For Del Valle Vs. Expedia, Hotels, Orbitz, Trivago, Etc. Libertad Act Lawsuit.  December 16, 2021 

Did U.S. Department Of Justice “Intervene” And Tip The Scale In A Libertad Act Title III Cuba Lawsuit On Behalf Of United Kingdom-Based Company? Defendants Hope So.  September 01, 2021 

Plaintiff Files Appeal Against Expedia In Libertad Act Lawsuit.  September 05, 2020

Crowley Maritime Corporation Mostly Loses On Motion To Dismiss In Libertad Act Lawsuit. Judge Says Libertad Act Definition Of Trafficking Is Constitional.

ODETTE BLANCO DE FERNANDEZ née BLANCO ROSELL, Plaintiff, v. CROWLEY MARITIME CORPORATION, Defendant. [3:20-cv-01426 Middle District Florida; Transferred To Florida Southern District 1:21-cv-20443]. 

Murphy & Anderson, P.A. (plaintiff)
Berliner Corcoran & Rowe LLP (plaintiff)
Fields PLLC (plaintiff)
Law Offices of John S. Gaebe P.A. (plaintiff)
Horr, Novak & Skipp P.A. (plaintiff)
Venable LLP (defendant)

Order (3/23/22)

Libertad Act Lawsuit Filing Statistics

Excerpts From Order

“The Supreme Court has explained that ‘[c]entral to assessing concreteness is whether the asserted harm has a “close relationship” to a harm traditionally recognized as providing a basis for a lawsuit in American courts—such as physical harm, monetary harm, or various intangible harms.’” Glen v. American Airlines, Inc., No. 20-10903, 2021 WL 3285307, at *2 (5th Cir. Aug. 2, 2021). Here, Plaintiffs allege that they were harmed when Defendants used the Confiscated Property “without consent from or paying adequate compensation to Plaintiffs.” [ECF No. 50 ¶ 144]. This harm “bears a close relationship to unjust enrichment, which has indisputable commonlaw roots.” Glen, 2021 WL 3285307, at *2. Indeed, Congress passed the Act, in part, because it found the remedies for “unjust enrichment from the use of wrongfully confiscated property . . . by private entities at the expense of the rightful owners of the property” to be ineffective. 22 U.S.C. § 6081(8). See Havana Docks, 484 F. Supp. 3d at 1192 (finding a concrete injury where the plaintiff “allege[d] that [defendant] profited from its use of the Subject Property at [plaintiff’s] expense.”). Accordingly, the Court finds that Plaintiffs have alleged a concrete and particularized harm.  

B. Traceability To have standing, Plaintiffs must also show that their injuries are “fairly traceable” to Defendants’ use of the Confiscated Property. Spokeo, 136 S. Ct. at 1547. “To show traceability, a plaintiff must allege that his injury is ‘connect[ed] with the conduct about which he complains.’” Glen, 2021 WL 3285307 (quoting Trump v. Hawaii, 138 S. Ct. 2392, 2416 (2018)). The SAC alleges that Defendants profited from their use of the Confiscated Property without compensating Plaintiffs. See [ECF No. 1 ¶¶ 1, 7, 11]. Accordingly, like in the Glen and the Havana Docks cases, “there exists a causal link between a claimant’s injury from the Cuban Government’s expropriation of their property and a subsequent trafficker’s unjust enrichment from its use of that confiscated property.” Havana Docks, 484 F. Supp. 3d at 1230. Therefore, the Court finds Plaintiff has adequately alleged traceability.  

C. Redressability “The element of redressability requires that ‘it must be likely, as opposed to merely speculative, that the injury will be redressed by a favorable decision.’” Hollywood Mobile Estates, Ltd. v. Seminole Tribe of Fla., 641 F.3d 1259, 1266 (11th Cir. 2011) (quoting Lujan, 504 U.S. at 561)). The parties do not dispute, and the Court agrees, that the element of redressability is properly alleged here. Accordingly, Plaintiffs have sufficiently established, at this stage of the litigation, that they have standing, and the Motion shall be denied on this ground. 

Defendants argue that the SAC must be dismissed because it fails to adequately allege that (1) Plaintiffs’ own a claim to the Container Terminal or the Concession; (2) Defendants’ alleged conduct constitutes “trafficking”; and (3) Defendants’ use of the Container Terminal is not “incident to lawful travel to Cuba.” [ECF No. 59]. The Court disagrees. 

Defendants focus much of their argument on the notion that Plaintiffs do not “own a claim” to the Container Terminal because ZEDM’s ports, docks, warehouses, and facilities did not exist until 2009, nearly fifty years after the Cuban government confiscated Plaintiffs’ property. Defendants’ argument is without merit. 

The Court finds that Plaintiffs sufficiently allege trafficking under the Act. First, Plaintiffs allege that Defendants use the Container Terminal, including storing their containers in the storage yard, and that using the Confiscated Property makes “[Defendants’] container business at the Port of Mariel possible and profitable.” [ECF No. 50 at ¶ 114]. This is enough to plausibly allege that Defendants “engage[d] in a commercial activity using or otherwise benefiting from confiscated property.” 22 U.S.C. § 6023(13)(A)(ii). In addition, Plaintiffs allege that ZEDM and AUSA all traffic in the Confiscated Property by developing and operating the Port of Mariel, and that Defendants profit from ZEDM and AUSA’s trafficking in the property. This is enough to plausibly allege that Defendants “profit[] from trafficking . . . by another person, or otherwise engage[] in trafficking . . . through another person.” 22 U.S.C. § 6023(13)(A)(iii). Accordingly, the Court finds that Plaintiffs have sufficiently alleged a violation of the Act. 

Defendants argue that Plaintiffs are required to plead around the lawful travel defense set forth in § 6023(13). The Court disagrees. “The lawful travel exception is an affirmative defense to trafficking that must be established by [Defendants], not negated by Plaintiff.” Garcia-Bengochea v. Carnival Corp, 407 F. Supp. 3d 1281, 1286 (S.D. Fla. 2019).11 Therefore, the burden is on Defendants to establish that their activity in the Port of Mariel and Container Terminals was incident to lawful travel to Cuba. Id. at 1287. As this defense is not apparent on the face of the SAC, it is inappropriate for consideration at this stage of the litigation. Id. 

Defendants argue that the Estates and Heirs do not have an actionable ownership interest in the Confiscated Property because they acquired their claims after March 12, 1996. On this point, the Court agrees. 

In addition, the Court does not find the term “trafficking” to be unconstitutionally vague. A civil statute “is not unconstitutionally vague if persons of reasonable intelligence can derive a core meaning from the statute.” Seniors Civil Lib. Ass’n, Inc. v. Kemp, 965 F.2d 1030, 1036 (11th Cir. 1992) (internal citations and quotations omitted). This Court, and the many other courts interpreting the Act, have not had difficulty in discerning the meaning of “trafficking.” Accordingly, the Motion on this ground is denied. 

Title III Does Not Violate the Due Process Clause.

In Belarus, Minsk Airport Duty Free Stores, Bacardi Outselling Havana Club

In Belarus, Minsk International Airport Duty Free retail stores have both Havana Club rum and Bacardi rum.  From the display sign, even though Belarus and the Republic of Cuba have a commercial, economic, and political relationship, travelers are preferring the Bermuda-based brand rather than the Havana-based brand. Republic of Cuba cigar brands are represented.

Related Post: At Vnukovo International Airport In Moscow, Havana Club Rum Has A Presence, But Bacardi Has More Real Estate In The Duty Free Shop. For Cigars, It's All About Cuba's Brands March 18, 2022

169-Page Ruling Against Four Largest Cruise Lines- They Engaged In Tourism In Cuba. Now A Binary Choice: Jury Trial In Miami, Florida, In May 2022 Or US$100+ Million Settlement? Is There Insurance?

With Judge Bloom’s ruling, the four cruise lines are nearing a binary choice- accept a jury trial or negotiate a settlement. As the plaintiffs seem to be seeking compensation (potentially US$100 million US$400 million) based upon what the Libertad Act permits, the four cruise lines will determine if a decision by a jury could be more costly than using the Libertad Act formulas to calculate what is owed to the plaintiffs. Key to remember- the jury will be residents of the Miami, Florida, area, and will certainly include individuals of Cuban descent.

HAVANA DOCKS CORPORATION V. NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE HOLDINGS, LTD. [1:19-cv-23591; Southern Florida District]
Colson Hicks Eidson, P.A. (plaintiff)
Margol & Margol, P.A. (plaintiff)
Hogan Lovells US LLP (defendant)

HAVANA DOCKS CORPORATION VS. ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES, LTD. [1:19-cv-23590; Southern Florida District]
Colson Hicks Eidson, P.A. (plaintiff)
Margol & Margol, P.A. (plaintiff)
Holland & Knight (defendant)

HAVANA DOCKS CORPORATION V. MSC CRUISES SA CO, AND MSC CRUISES (USA) INC. [1:19-cv-23588; Southern Florida District]
Colson Hicks Eidson, P.A. (plaintiff)
Margol & Margol, P.A. (plaintiff)
Venable (defendant)

HAVANA DOCKS CORPORATION VS. CARNIVAL CORPORATION D/B/A/ CARNIVAL CRUISE LINES [1:19-cv-21724; Southern Florida District]
Colson Hicks Eidson, P.A. (plaintiff)
Margol & Margol, P.A. (plaintiff)
Jones Walker (defendant)
Boies Schiller Flexner LLP (defendant)
Akerman (defendant)

LINK To 169-Page Omnibus Order (3/21/22)
LINK To Libertad Act Lawsuit Filing Statistics

LINK To Previous Post
Federal Judge Rules Libertad Act Lawsuit Against Carnival, MSC, Norwegian, And Royal Caribbean Will Be Heard By Jury In May 2022. "Cuban-Americans" On Jury May Be Problematic For Defendants. February 23, 2022

MSME's In Cuba Continue To Be Created, Continue To Expand While Biden-Harris Administration Ignores Opportunities For U.S.-Sourced Investment And Financing... 414 Days

OnCuba News (Miami, Florida)- 17 March 2022

Cuba approaches 2500 MSMEs

On Thursday, the Ministry of Economy and Planning (MEP) announced the authorization of 115 new MSMEs, of which 113 were private and two state-owned, as well as three Non-Agricultural Cooperatives (CNA). The Cuban government authorized another hundred Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), bringing these new economic actors closer to 2500 since the approval of the first in September of last year. In total, of the 115 new MSMEs authorized, 113 are private and two are state-owned, as reported by the Ministry of Economy and Planning (MEP). They are also joined by three Non-Agricultural Cooperatives (CNA), the entity said on its Twitter account. In this way, there are already 2,478 new actors endorsed by the authorities, as part of the reforms promoted by them, which, however, maintain state enterprises as the main protagonists of the Cuban economy. 

To date, the country has 2388 private MSMEs, 51 state-owned MSMEs, and 39 ANCs. 57% of these actors are reconversions of pre-existing businesses, while 43% correspond to new ventures, according to the MEP, which sets more than 40,000 jobs generated by them. Of these actors, 99 are part of local development projects, 34 have previously carried out export operations and 11 were developed in the Science and Technology Park of Havana. These are figures that must continue to grow, as the government has said it will not put limits on their quantity.

At the beginning of this week the MEP expanded its call to create MSMEs dedicated to accommodation, beauty services and services to buildings and industrial facilities. Until now, its permits already included food production, computer science, the circular economy and recycling, manufacturing, logistics and transport activities, construction services and gastronomy, among other activities. MSMEs, approved as an economic actor in the middle of last year, can be state-, private or mixed property and are recognized as an economic unit with legal personality with its own characteristics. The law allows them to have one or more partners and be incorporated as commercial companies, although they cannot operate in areas recognized as "strategic" for the State such as health, telecommunications, defense and the press. 

Center For Democracy In The Americas (Washington DC)- 18 March 2022

Almost 2,500 micro, small, and medium size enterprises (SMEs or PYMES in Spanish) have been authorized to operate in Cuba since the long-awaited law regulating SMEs came into effect in September 2021, OnCuba News reports. Last week alone, 115 new SMEs were authorized, 113 of which are private enterprises and two of which are state-owned enterprises. According to a tweet from Oniel Diaz, co-founder of Cuban private business consulting firm AUGE, the number of SMEs has now surpassed the number of state-owned companies and commercial entities, with 2,276 private SMEs compared to 2,125 state-owned enterprises. The news of private SMEs outnumbering state-owned companies comes as Cuba’s Minister of the Economy, Alejandro Gil, announced that out of the 457 Cuban enterprises that reported a loss in the month of January, 446 were state enterprises. Most of the approved SMEs are focused on food production, with others focused on manufacturing, recycling, technology, and local development. Cuba’s government also announced last week that, in addition to the aforementioned business categories, SMEs could also be enterprises focused on accommodations, beauty services, and services to buildings and industrial facilities. Certain professionals such as accountants, lawyers, architects, and engineers, remain prohibited from forming companies, a regulation that has received pushback from economists. Learn more about the breakdown of SMEs by industry, province, and size, among other data, here.

SMEs only became operable in Cuba in September 2021 after Cuba’s Council of Ministers published the regulations that govern the creation and operation of SMEs in August 2021. Previously, without a framework for SMEs, those in Cuba’s private sector who wished to work as a company with multiple employees had to register as individuals and acquire a license as individual entrepreneurs, rather than registering as and/or licensing a business. Under the new legislation, SMEs can employ up to 100 workers and establish the equivalent of a private limited company with “members” and “employees.” The legalization of SMEs was a long-awaited move that economists advocated for as a way to boost the island’s economy. 

LINKS To Self-Employed, Micro, Small & Medium-Size Enterprise (MSME) Analyses  

Surprise Decision: Biden-Harris Administration Renews Trump-Pence Administration License To Export EVs To Embassies In Cuba. Company Offers To Donate EV Chargers To U.S. Embassy/Ambassador Residence  January 25, 2022 

Cuba Updates Status Of Micro, Small & Medium-Sized Enterprises  January 19, 2022 

Why Is National Security Council (NSC) In The White House Refusing To Permit U.S.-Based Investors/Financiers To Directly Support Women-Owned (Or Men-Owned) Businesses In Cuba? State Dept. Complicit?  January 06, 2022 

Embassy Of Italy: V International Workshop of Women Entrepreneurs In Cuba: "The Talent Of Women. Art, Crafts & Design"  January 06, 2022 

President Biden Rejects BIS License Application To Export Electric Vehicles/Chargers To Cuba's Self-Employed, MSME's. Reversal Of "General Policy Of Approval." President Trump Authorized EV Exports.  December 20, 2021 

Cuba Again Expanding MSME Authorizations To Include Accessing Foreign Capital, Foreign Bank Accounts, Local Development Projects Qualify.  December 02, 2021 

Why Won't Biden Administration Permit U.S. Entities To Invest/Finance MSMEs? In December, Cuba’s FIMELSA Begins Convertible Currency-Equivalent Loans At 6.5% For 120 Days; Lower For CUP.  November 25, 2021 

Update: More Than 700 Micro, Small And Medium-Sized Enterprises Approved In Cuba  November 25, 2021 

OFAC & BIS To 107 Tech Companies? Cuba. Yes, You Can Go There, But We Dare You. "Encourage & Enable" Not The Same As "Access & Use." Memo: Donilon, Klain, Ricchetti, Richmond, Sullivan.  November 23, 2021 

Will President Biden's Statement That His Is "a small business presidency” Extend To Supporting Small Businesses In Cuba?  November 22, 2021 

Update On Registration Of Micro, Small & Medium-Size Enterprises In Cuba. Now More Than 600.  November 21, 2021 

Cuba Continues To Report On Activity Of MSME's- The Numbers Increase.  November 06, 2021 

Joint Venture Between Banco de Sabadell Of Spain And Banco International de Comercio In Cuba Will Provide Financing In Foreign Currency To MSMEs & Non-Agricultural Cooperatives  November 05, 2021 

Beginning Today Residents Of Cuba May Purchase And Install Residential Solar Systems. Cost 55,000.00 Pesos (US$2,300.00). Call 7833-3333.  November 04, 2021  

Bormey srl Among The First 35 Newly-Constituted Medium-Sized Enterprises In Cuba, Exported 5,000 Peanut Bars To Italy. Is United States Next? U.S. Department Of State Regulations Would Approve.  October 26, 2021 

Cuba Approves First 35 MIPYME Applications- Confirms No Application Thus Far Denied. Many More Applications Expected. Result Beneficial For Biden Administration Goal To Support SME's.  September 30, 2021 

Cuba Suspends Tariffs And Fees For Non-Commercial (SME's Next?) Solar Systems. Another Opportunity For Biden-Harris Administration To Support U.S. Exporters And Florida Companies Should Benefit.  July 30, 2021 

ProLimp Cleaning In Cuba Precisely Type Of Entrepreneurship Biden Administration Should Support. Will Cuba Permit U.S. Venture Capitalists?  March 08, 2021 

Cuba To Unify Currencies; Result Could Present Opportunities For Biden Administration And U.S. Companies  December 11, 2020 

Florida Company Receives License To Export Electric Vehicles To Cuba; Charging Stations From New Jersey-Based Company.  January 25, 2017 

Restriction On Sale Of Premium Gasoline May Benefit Electric Vehicles & Solar Panels; Embassies Concerned.  April 07, 2017

At Vnukovo International Airport In Moscow, Havana Club Rum Has A Presence, But Bacardi Has More Real Estate In The Duty Free Shop. For Cigars, It's All About Cuba's Brands.

Although since 1959 governments of the Republic of Cuba have retained a special relationship with the then-U.S.S.R. and its primary political successor the Russian Federation, commercial relationships can be different than political relationships.  For example, in one of the duty free stores, Hamilton, Bermuda-based Bacardi rum products have a far more prominent display than does Havana, Republic of Cuba-based Havana Club rum products.

However, when the display is about cigars…. Behind these three humidors were all brands manufactured in the Republic of Cuba.       

However, when the display is about cigars…. Behind these three humidors were all brands manufactured in the Republic of Cuba.

Cubita Coffee From Cuba Available At GUM Department Store In Moscow

In a section of GUM department store which is located in the city of Moscow along Red Square across from the Kremlin, there are coffees from throughout the world.

And within that section are varieties and sizes of Cubita, the most well-known of coffee brands owned by Republic of Cuba government-operated companies.  On 17 March 2022, US$1.00=103.00 Rubles).

• Café En Grano 500 grams at 1,057.00 Rubles (US$10.26)

• Café En Grano 1000 grams at 1,990.00 Rubles (US$19.32)

• Café En Grano 250 grams at 578.00 Rubles (US$5.68)

• Café Torrefacto En Grano 1000 grams at 2,268.00 Rubles (US$22.01)

• Café de Cuba Caracolillo (Tradicional) 1000 grams at 2,150.00 Rubles (US$20.87)

Coffee from the Republic of Cuba is exported through Republic of Cuba government-opeated CUBAEXPORT under the auspice of the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Investment of the Republic of Cuba.

“CUBAEXPORT was created in 1965 by the Ministry of Foreign Trade to develop the export of food and various products in the international market. In 2013CUBAEXPORT integrates into the business group for foreign trade (GECOMEX). Its presence in the international market for over 50 years validates the strength and professionalism in business that it has developed in Europe, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Guadeloupe and Martinique, the Middle East, Turkey and Greece among other countries. We provide technical and commercial assistance, systematically we monitor quality control for export and import, according to market requirements. The company has executive staff with several years of experience in the business and high professional level. CUBAEXPORT agencies have signed contracts with Global Commodities UK Ltd in London, England and GALAX Inc in Montreal, Canada to focus on European and Canadian markets respectively. Some other bee products are in promotion such as honey mixtures, propoleos and Bee wax; while among forest products the rosin gum, turpentine oil, hemp fibre and forest seeds.”

Geo.F. Trumper In London Releases "Havana" Deodorant, Adding To "Havana" Body Wash, Cologne

“Geo. F. Trumper is a British men's barber and perfumer in London, England, which sells its own brand of men's fragrances and personal grooming products. It was established in 1875 by George Francis William Trumper as a Gentlemen's Barber Shop. George Trumper was not only an excellent barber but also a master perfumer, and he soon gained a reputation as such among the gentlemen of London's elite.

Geo. F. Trumper operates two retail locations in London. The first one is in the original shop at 9 Curzon Street in Mayfair, and the second one is at 1 Duke of York Street in St James's. At the shop in Curzon Street, the interior retains the original mahogany cubicles and glass display cases that were installed in the 20th century. The firm's head office is located at 166 Fairbridge Road in north London.Evelyn Waugh refers to Geo. F. Trumper in his novel Brideshead Revisited, when he writes that Rex Mottram sends for a man from the establishment to shave Charles Ryder, Sebastian Flyte and Boy Mulcaster after they were held in jail on charges of driving while intoxicated.

In the James Bond novel On Her Majesty's Secret Service, Ian Fleming mentions a fragrance by Geo. F. Trumper, when Bond visits Marc-Ange Draco in Marseille and finds a bottle of Eucris in his bathroom.

In John le Carré's novel Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, George Smiley is intercepted by a disagreeable minor character who had just had his hair cut at Trumper's establishment in Curzon Street.

In the "How Does Your Garden Grow?" episode of Agatha Christie's Poirot (season 3, episode 1), Hercule Poirot is seen leaving Trumper's Curzon Street shop after buying a fragrance there.”

BIS "Returned Without Action" License Application To Donate EV Chargers To U.S. Embassy In Havana Because "Ultimate Consignee" Cancelled Transaction

Colombia, Maryland-based Premier Automotive Export, Ltd., which also has an office in Miami, Florida, offered to donate and install electric vehicle charging stations (including solar capture) at the United States Embassy in Havana, Republic of Cuba, and at the official residence of the ambassador in Havana. 

On 4 March 2022, the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) of the United States Department of Commerce responded: 

“The reason printed below explains why the referenced Export License Application is (R)eturned (W)ithout (A)ction. When an application has been Returned Without Action and is being resubmitted, a new application form must be submitted. When a new form is submitted, it must reference the original application. The resubmission must be in accordance with the requirements existing at the time of the resubmission (See Section 748 of the Export Administration Regulations).” 

“REASON: This license application is returned without action (RWA) since the transaction was cancelled by the ultimate consigne. This application may not be used to export/reexport. The applicant is reminded that authorization is required to export or reexport to Cuba all items subject to the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Please be advised that all export and reexport transactions are subject to the General Prohibitions in Part 736 of the EAR. Also, you are advised to consult the Bureau of Industry and Security’s “Know Your Customer” and Red Flags Guidance in Supplement 3 to Part 732 of the EAR.” 

“The Ultimate Consignee was the Embassy of the United States, Calzada E/L & M Streets, Vedado, Havana, Republic of Cuba.” 

On 3 February 2022, the United States Department of State responded to correspondence of 24 January 2022 from Premier Automotive Export, Ltd., to The Honorable Brian Nichols, Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs (WHA): 

“On behalf of Ambassador Nichols, I would like to extend our gratitude to you for your generous offer to donate and install four electric vehicle chargers for use at the United States Embassy in Cuba.  The Biden-Harris Administration has articulated the United States’ goal to accelerate and deploy electric vehicles and charging stations, and to enable a clean transportation future to combat climate change.  The United States Embassy in Cuba currently does not operate any electric vehicles at our Embassy compound or residences in Havana.  Due to impediments in the electrical infrastructure and a lack of trained mechanics on the island to service electric vehicles, it is unlikely that the United States Embassy will consider importing one or more electric vehicles for use in Cuba in the near future.  Given that your donation would largely remain unused at this time, we politely decline your kind offer.  Thank you again and best wishes on your continued efforts exporting green technologies throughout the Caribbean.” 

On 24 January 2022, Premier Automotive Export, Ltd. received a renewal of its license from the BIS to export gasoline-powered vehicles, electric-powered vehicles, and hybrid vehicles from the United States to the Republic of Cuba.  The authorized purchasers are diplomatic missions located in the Republic of Cuba, including the Embassy of the United States in the city of Havana, Republic of Cuba. 

On 3 December 2021, a spokesperson of the United States Department of State was quoted: “The Biden Administration has clearly articulated the United States’ goal to accelerate and deploy electric vehicles and charging stations, create good-paying, union jobs, and enable a clean transportation future to combat climate change. However, the United States Embassy in Cuba does not operate any electric vehicles nor has any solar power charging stations at our Embassy compound or residences in Havana. At this time, it would be unlikely that the United States Embassy consider importing one or more electric vehicles for use in Cuba in the near future due to impediments in the electrical infrastructure and lack of trained mechanics on the island to service electric vehicles.”   

Premier Automotive Export Ltd., submitted a license application to the BIS for authorization to donate to the United States Department of State four (4) electric vehicle (EV) chargers for use at the Embassy of the United States in Havana, Republic of Cuba, and for use at the Residence of the United States Ambassador in Havana, Republic of Cuba.  A letter relating to the donation was sent to the United States Department of State.  The company would also coordinate the installation of the electric vehicle chargers.  The selected electric vehicle chargers will service all vehicles currently available and those planned for production:   

2- Clipper Creek LCS-40 Level II 40 Amp Charger fitted with the J-1772 universal charging connector.  https://store.clippercreek.com/residential/hcs-40-hcs-40p-ev-charging-station  One Clipper Creek EV charger would be located at the United States Embassy and one Clipper Creek EV Charger would be located at the Residence of the United States Ambassador.  

2- Tesla Wallmount Connector Gen 3 (208/240V).  https://www.tesla.com/support/home-charging  One Tesla EV charger would be located at the United States Embassy and one Tesla EV Charger would be located at the Residence of the United States Ambassador.  

The reason for the donation of electric vehicle chargers from different manufacturers is twofold.  First, unknown which manufacturer and model of electric vehicle(s) will the United States Department of State purchase for use in the Republic of Cuba.  Second, the Biden-Harris Administration continues to promote favorably manufacturers and models of electric vehicles from companies with union representation for their employees.  Austin, Texas-based Tesla, Inc., is non-union.  Detroit, Michigan-based General Motors Company; Dearborn, Michigan-based Ford Motor Company; and Amsterdam, The Netherlands-based Stallantis N.V. (Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, etc.) are union.  

Related Analysis Links 

U.S. Department Of State Appoints "Chief Sustainability Officer"- Mandate Text Includes Focus On "Electrifying Fleet" And "Host Partners" Does This Mean EVs For Cuba? President Biden Supports?  February 10, 2022 

While Promoting EV Use In The United States, Biden-Harris Administration Refuses To Permit Exports Of EVs To Cuba For Use By Re-Emerging Private Sector- And U.S. Embassy In Havana Does Not Want One.  February 08, 2022 

Surprise Decision: Biden-Harris Administration Renews Trump-Pence Administration License To Export EVs To Embassies In Cuba. Company Offers To Donate EV Chargers To U.S. Embassy/Ambassador Residence  January 25, 2022  

President Biden Rejects BIS License Application To Export Electric Vehicles/Chargers To Cuba's Self-Employed, MSME's. Reversal Of "General Policy Of Approval." President Trump Authorized EV Exports.  December 20, 2021  

Beginning Today Residents Of Cuba May Purchase And Install Residential Solar Systems. Cost 55,000.00 Pesos (US$2,300.00). Call 7833-3333.  November 04, 2021  

Cuba Has Nickel And Cobalt. Vehicle Electric Batteries Use Nickel And Cobalt. Cuba Should Benefit.  September 25, 2021   

Cuba Owes Partner Canada's Sherritt International Corporation Tens Of Millions Of US Dollars. But, Both Cuba & Patient Company (And Shareholders) Anticipate Profitable Role With Electric Vehicles.  July 03, 2021   

Restriction On Sale Of Premium Gasoline May Benefit Electric Vehicles & Solar Panels; Embassies Concerned.  April 07, 2017  

Florida Company Receives License To Export Electric Vehicles To Cuba; Charging Stations From New Jersey-Based Company.  January 25, 2017

Four Years Later, "The 2024 Process" For Venezuela May Have Renewed Interest Given Visit To Caracas By Biden-Harris Administration Officials This Weekend

The United States Congress may vote on legislation to prevent the oil and natural gas providers from sourcing product in the Russian Federation.  If there is a vote, it will likely have the two-thirds required in each chamber to override a veto by United States President Joseph Biden.  The Biden-Harris Administration (2021- ) has a problem in not wanting to take decisions that will exacerbate the price of oil and natural gas for United States consumers- particularly with the mid-term elections eight months from now, but also not wanting to veto legislation that seems so right at the moment.   

One beneficially may be Venezuela- which has the world’s largest oil reserves.  To date, United States companies remain permitted (from Obama-Biden Administration (2009-2017) through Trump-Pence Administration (2017-2021) through Biden-Harris Administration (2021- )) to engage with some assets in Venezuela by licenses issued by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) of the United States Department of the Treasury.   

The political question: From where is sourcing oil less foul- from the Russian Federation while it attacks Ukraine or from the Nicolas Maduro-Delcy Rodriguez Administration (2013- ) in Caracas? Bet with Venezuela cutting a deal because it believes the timing is right for a deal as attention by the United States lies elsewhere. There is the C-word that impacts everything Venezuela and that is the Republic of Cuba and Venezuela’s commercial, economic, and political support to the Miguel Diaz-Canel-Valdes Mesa Administration (2019- ).

That representatives of The White House and United States Department of State are in Caracas this weekend is a win for President Maduro. Don’t discount the prospect of a release on humanitarian grounds some or all of the United States nationals imprisoned in Venezuela as a quid pro quo.Other than the Russian Federation, a country with oil and/or natural gas, regardless of its relationship with the United States, has a meaningful moment to extract something of value from the United States.Check out “The 2024 Process” created in 2017 and presented in 2018.

The 2024 Process
(first published 2018; revised)

“2024” May Unlock A Solution For Venezuela
Need For Multilateral Quid Pro Quo
For Cuba- 25/25/25/25
Many Companies Have An Interest In Venezuela
Maduro Isn’t Likely Going Unless Assassinated Or Four Governments Agree
Guaido Fatally Contaminated By Connectivity With Trump Administration
What Is The Realistic “Mission Set”
Adhering To Aspirational & Desired Instead Of Doable
The Process Will Not Be A Moment, It Will Be A Series Of Moments

LINK TO ANALYSIS IN PDF FORMAT

Federal Judge Rules Libertad Act Lawsuit Against Carnival, MSC, Norwegian, And Royal Caribbean Will Be Heard By Jury In May 2022. "Cuban-Americans" On Jury May Be Problematic For Defendants.

Surprise That Decision About Summary Judgement Did Not Arrive Before Decision About Trial By Jury. 

Voire Dire Challenge To Select Impartial Jurists In South Florida. 

How Many Residents Of South Florida Do Not Have An Opinion About Cuba?  Obama? Trump?

“Jury Of Peers” Will Likely Include Individuals Of Cuban Descent. 

Might There Be Impetus For A Settlement Given Uncertainties Of Juries 

All 42 Libertad Act Lawsuits Impacted By Upcoming Decision By Biden-Harris Administration Whether To Provide Answers To 11th Circuit District Court Of Appeals 

More Appeals Certain 

HAVANA DOCKS CORPORATION V. NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE HOLDINGS, LTD. [1:19-cv-23591; Southern Florida District] 

Colson Hicks Eidson, P.A. (plaintiff)
Margol & Margol, P.A. (plaintiff)
Hogan Lovells US LLP (defendant)

HAVANA DOCKS CORPORATION VS. ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES, LTD. [1:19-cv-23590; Southern Florida District] 

Colson Hicks Eidson, P.A. (plaintiff)
Margol & Margol, P.A. (plaintiff)
Holland & Knight (defendant)

HAVANA DOCKS CORPORATION V. MSC CRUISES SA CO, AND MSC CRUISES (USA) INC. [1:19-cv-23588; Southern Florida District] 

Colson Hicks Eidson, P.A. (plaintiff)
Margol & Margol, P.A. (plaintiff)
Venable (defendant)

HAVANA DOCKS CORPORATION VS. CARNIVAL CORPORATION D/B/A/ CARNIVAL CRUISE LINES [1:19-cv-21724; Southern Florida District] 

Colson Hicks Eidson, P.A. (plaintiff)
Margol & Margol, P.A. (plaintiff)
Jones Walker (defendant)
Boies Schiller Flexner LLP (defendant)
Akerman (defendant)

LINKS To Court Filings 

OMNIBUS ORDER ON MOTIONS TO STRIKE PLAINTIFF’S JURY TRIAL DEMAND (2/22/22)

PLAINTIFF HAVANA DOCKS CORPORATION’S REPLY IN SUPPORT OF ITS MOTION TO UNSEAL THE SUMMARY JUDGMENT RECORD (2/21/22) 

DEFENDANT CARNIVAL CORPORATION’S RESPONSE IN OPPOSITION TO PLAINTIFF’S MOTION TO UNSEAL THE SUMMARY JUDGMENT RECORD (2/16/22) 

LINK To Libertad Act Lawsuit Filing Statistics

Government Of Cuba Supports Russian Federation... Russian Federation Defers US$2.3 Billion In Loan Payments Until 2027.

Moscow, Feb 22 (Prensa Latina News Agency) The State Duma (Lower House of Parliament) of Russia today ratified the protocols that modify the Russian-Cuban intergovernment loan agreements and allow Cuba's payments of commercial loans to be deferred until 2027.

By: Elsy Fors Garzon

According to Deputy Finance Minister Timur Maksimov, the ratification bill (No. 70935-8) provides for the restructuring of Cuba’s debt with Russia within the framework of four intergovernment loan agreements, indicated the official website of the legislature on the decision adopted in the plenary session on Tuesday.

The restructuring was carried out as part of the approach endorsed by President Vladimir Putin to extend to the island a multilateral initiative to alleviate the debt burden of less developed countries, adopted in 2020 by the G20 states, he explained.

Between 2006 and 2019, Russia provided Cuba with export loans equivalent to 2.3 billion dollars, according to the note published by the State Duma.

He indicated that these funds were granted to the Caribbean island to finance projects in the fields of energy, metallurgy, transport infrastructure and the supply of products to develop and support its economy.

Since the beginning of 2020, due to the difficult situation in the country, caused by the tightening of the US blockade and the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic crisis, Cuba stopped paying the state loans provided by Russia and in September requested the restructuring .

Following Havana’s request, the Moscow Government signed the corresponding inter-government protocols on August 7, 2021, according to which the last reimbursement must be made on December 15, 2027.

Continuation Of The National Emergency With Respect To Cuba And Of The Emergency Authority Relating To The Regulation Of The Anchorage And Movement Of Vessels

The White House
Washington DC
23 February 2022

CONTINUATION OF THE NATIONAL EMERGENCY WITH RESPECT TO CUBA AND OF THE EMERGENCY AUTHORITY RELATING TO THE REGULATION OF THE ANCHORAGE AND MOVEMENT OF VESSELS

On March 1, 1996, by Proclamation 6867, a national emergency was declared to address the disturbance or threatened disturbance of international relations caused by the February 24, 1996, destruction by the Cuban government of two unarmed, United States-registered civilian aircraft in international airspace north of Cuba. On February 26, 2004, by Proclamation 7757, the national emergency was expanded to deny monetary and material support to the Cuban government. On February 24, 2016, by Proclamation 9398, and on February 22, 2018, by Proclamation 9699, the national emergency was further modified based on continued disturbances or threatened disturbances of the international relations of the United States related to Cuba. The Cuban government has not demonstrated that it will refrain from the use of excessive force against United States vessels or aircraft that may engage in memorial activities or peaceful protest north of Cuba.

Further, the unauthorized entry of any United States-registered vessel into Cuban territorial waters continues to be detrimental to the foreign policy of the United States because such entry could facilitate a mass migration from Cuba. It continues to be United States policy that a mass migration from Cuba would endanger United States national security by posing a disturbance or threatened disturbance of the international relations of the United States.

Therefore, in accordance with section 202(d) of the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)), I am continuing the national emergency with respect to Cuba and the emergency authority relating to the regulation of the anchorage and movement of vessels set out in Proclamation 6867, as amended by Proclamation 7757, Proclamation 9398, and Proclamation 9699. This notice shall be published in the Federal Register and transmitted to the Congress. JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

The White House
Washington DC
23 February 2022

Dear Madam Speaker: (Dear Madam President:)

Section 202(d) of the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)) provides for the automatic termination of a national emergency unless, within 90 days prior to the anniversary date of its declaration, the President publishes in the Federal Register and transmits to the Congress a notice stating that the emergency is to continue in effect beyond the anniversary date. In accordance with this provision, I have sent to the Federal Register for publication the enclosed notice stating that the national emergency with respect to Cuba that was declared on March 1, 1996, in Proclamation 6867, as amended by Proclamation 7757 on February 26, 2004, Proclamation 9398 on February 24, 2016, and Proclamation 9699 on February 22, 2018, is to continue in effect beyond March 1, 2022.

There remains a need to continue this national emergency, based on a disturbance or threatened disturbance of the international relations for the United States related to Cuba. The unauthorized entry of any United States-registered vessel into Cuban territorial waters continues to be detrimental to the foreign policy of the United States.

The unauthorized entry of vessels subject to the jurisdiction of the United States into Cuban territorial waters is currently a violation of Federal law. Further, the unauthorized entry of United States-registered vessels into Cuban territorial waters continues to be detrimental to United States foreign policy and counter to the purpose of Executive Order 12807, which is to ensure, among other things, safe, orderly, and legal migration. The possibility of large-scale unauthorized entries of United States-registered vessels into Cuban territorial waters would disturb the international relations of the United States regarding Cuba by allowing for or providing the means to facilitate a mass migration of Cuban nationals and threatening our national security.

Therefore, I have determined that it is necessary to continue the national emergency with respect to Cuba and the emergency authority relating to the regulation of the anchorage and movement of vessels set out in Proclamation 6867, as amended by Proclamation 7757, Proclamation 9398, and Proclamation 9699. Sincerely, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

Since Biden Administration Took Office On 20 January 2021, How Often Do Officials Of The Governments Of The United States And Cuba Meet? Discuss Remittances, Banking, Private Businesses? No Answers.

On 14 February 2022, this question was sent to the United States Department of State in Washington DC and to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Havana, Republic of Cuba:  

“[T]he number of official face-to-face meetings (in person or by video or by telephone) and the subject(s) discussed between officials of the United States Department of State and officials of the government of the Republic of Cuba for the period 20 January 2021 through the most recent meeting.  Of specific interest, but not limited to, is/are meeting(s) relating to the delivery of remittances, direct correspondent banking, and direct investment in and delivery of financing to private businesses.”  

On 16 February 2022, the United States Department of State responded, but did not answer in totality the question.   

Attributable to a State Department spokesperson: “The United States government regularly engages with the Cuban government on issues of mutual interest, including through meetings between our diplomats in the United States and in Cuba.  Our policy toward Cuba focuses first and foremost on support for the Cuban people, including their political and economic well-being, and human rights.” 

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cuba has not responded to the question.

For Cuba, Payment Terms For Milk Powder Traveling 16,445 Miles, 30+ Days From New Zealand, Is Better Financial Decision Than Using Cash To Import From U.S. With Two Day Delivery. Will It Last?

For Cuba, receiving payment terms for milk powder traveling 16,445 nautical miles and taking more than a month to arrive from New Zealand is considered a better financial decision than using cash to import from the United States. 

The distance average to Cuba of ports for its current three-largest sources of milk powder is 9,449 nautical miles with delivery average of 34.3 days to 10.8 days. 

The greatest distance from Cuba of ports in the United States from which milk powder could be delivered is 1,465 nautical miles; average delivery from six primary ports is 2.0 days.  

Since 2020, Container Shipping Costs From Asia Have Increased As Much As 500%. 

Might Cuba Give To Current New York State Governor Kathy Hochul What It Did Not Give To Then New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo? 

At present, the less credit available to the Republic of Cuba inversely increases the value of sourcing exports from the United States despite the Republic of Cuba’s distain of laws, regulations, and policies of the United States.  The current landscape is for United States companies neither viable nor preferred for the long term. 

Using 20 Knots Speed
Port of Wellington, New Zealand- 16,445 nautical miles, 34.3 days at sea
Port of Montevideo, Uruguay- 6,695 nautical miles; 13.9 days at sea
Port of Antwerp, Belgium- 5,208 nautical miles; 10.8 days at sea

Using 20 Knots Speed
Port of NY/NJ- 1,465 nautical miles; 3.1 days at sea
Port of Norfolk, Virginia- 1,165 nautical miles; 2.4 days at sea
Port of Houston, Texas- 1,097 nautical miles; 2.3 days at sea
Port of New Orleans, Louisiana- 826 nautical miles; 1.7 days at sea
Port of Mobile, Alabama- 731 nautical miles; 1.5 days at sea
Port of Jacksonville, Florida- 560 nautical miles; 1.2 days at sea

The Republic of Cuba reported production of 455 million kilograms (116,697,363 gallons) of fresh milk in 2020.  According to the Montevideo, Uruguay-based Pan American Dairy Federation, each person should have access to 150 liters (39.6 gallons) of milk per year.  For the Republic of Cuba’s 11.3 million residents, that would be 450,870,000 gallons.  

In 2019, the Republic of Cuba was reported to have imported approximately US$136 million in Concentrated Milk, the country’s fifth-largest import;  the Republic of Cuba was the 36th largest global importer of Concentrated Milk.  The primary reported country sources were: New Zealand (US$47.2 million), Uruguay (US$33.5 million), The Netherlands (US$14.6 million), Belgium (US$13.4 million), Mexico (US$9.08 million), Germany (US$4.22 million). 

In 2020, the Republic of Cuba was reported to have imported powdered milk primarily from three countries- New Zealand (18,470 metric tons valued at US$62,594,000.00), Belgium (6,628 metric tons valued at US$19,913,000.00), Germany (reported US$8,560,000.00 and US$15,812,000.00), and Uruguay (3,695 metric tons valued at US$13,334,000.00) according to Geneva, Switzerland-based Trade Map.  

In 2021, the average price of United States-sourced whole milk powder exports was US$3,110.00 per metric ton compared to US$2,981.00 per metric ton in 2020.  In 2021, the average price of United States-sourced skim milk powder exports was US$2,768.00 per metric ton compared to US$2,475.00 per metric ton in 2020.   

In November 2021, the average export price for Nonfat Dried Milk and Skim Milk Powder (NFDM/SMP) was US$3,075.00 per metric ton and Whole Milk Powder (WMP) was US$3,199.00 per metric ton.  For shipping (with inland freight cost unknown), given container price inflation, perhaps US$1,000.00 per container (less than United States West Coast to China) which would equate to average approximately US$80.00 per metric ton (US$3.5 cents per pound).  

From Statistics New Zealand (9 February 2022) 

0402100002 Dairy produce; milk and cream, concentrated or containing added sugar or other sweetening matter, skimmed milk powder, spray process, fat content not over 1.5%.  Kilograms: 

2018: US$2,167,840.00 (1,008,000 Kilograms)
2019: US$3,050,040.00 (1,410,500 Kilograms)
2020: None
2021: None
2022: Not Yet Reported

0402210019 Dairy produce; whole milk powder, concentrated, not containing added sugar or other sweetening matter, of a fat content exceeding 1.5% (by weight), n.e.c. in item no. 0402.21.  Kilograms: 

2018: US$16,925,161.00 (5,516,125 Kilograms; 5,516 Metric Tons)
2019: US$44,660,178.00 (13,893,675 Kilograms; 13,893 Metric Tons)
2020: US$65,931,561.00 (18,223,875 Kilograms; 18,224 Metric Tons)
2021: US$22,063,547.00 (6,297,400 Kilograms; 6,297 Metric Tons)
2022: Not Yet Reported

Trade Sanctions Reform And Export Enhancement Act Of 2000 (TSREEA) 

The TSREEA re-authorized the direct commercial (on a cash basis only) export of food products (including branded food products) and agricultural commodities from the United States to the Republic of Cuba, irrespective of purpose.  Since December 2001 when the first purchases were delivered using provisions of the TSREEA, more than US$6,572,910,533.00 in agricultural commodities and food products have been delivered directly from the United States to the Republic of Cuba.  

Powdered Milk Highest Year Exports From The United States To The Republic Of Cuba 

Total milk exports from the United States to the Republic of Cuba since 2001 are approximately US$109 million. 

Milk & Cream CNTD W/N SWT POWDER GRAN/SLDS 1.5% (highest years)
2008- US$13,304,622.00 (4.08% of total 2008 exports to Cuba)
2006- US$12,568,170.00 (3.69% of total 2006 exports to Cuba)
2005- US$29,584,712.00 (8.44% of total 2005 exports to Cuba)
2004- US$25,691,962.00 (6.55% of total 2004 exports to Cuba)

HS Code (0402100000): Dairy produce; milk and cream, not concentrated, no containing added sugar or other sweetening matter, of a fat content, by weight, exceeding 1% but not exceeding 6%. 

A very small quantity of MILK AND CREAM CNTD W/N SWT POWDER GRAN/SLDS 1.5% was exported to the Republic of Cuba since 2004. 

HS Code (0401100000): Dairy produce; milk and cream, not concentrated, no containing added sugar or other sweetening matter, of a fat content, by weight, not exceeding 1%. 

2021- US$19,163.00 (.006% of total 2021 exports to Cuba)

HS Code (0401500000): Milk & Cream, Not Concntrd/swtn, Fat Contnt Ov 10% (l)
HS Code (0402990000): Milk/Cream, Whthr/not Concentrated, Sweetnd, Nesoi (kg)

The Governor Of New York Debacle                

From 20/21 April 2015, then Governor of the State of New York, The Honorable Andrew Cuomo (D), embarked on a twenty-seven (27) hour quixotic journey to the Republic of Cuba.  To date, there have been no published reports of exports of products to the Republic of Cuba from the seven (7) participating companies.  The Governor and his staff (more than fifteen participated including seven focused upon media) embraced the “planting seeds” analogy… There are few seeds that do not create something within seven years.  Governor Cuomo neither included a representative of the New York State Department of Agriculture & Markets nor a representative of the Albany, New York-based New York Farm Bureau.  He included two companies that produce agricultural products (yogurt and dairy); neither obtained orders.  One of the companies was New Berlin, New York-based Chobani Global Holdings, LLC.   

A member of the delegation was Mr. Kevin Ellis, Chief Executive Officer of Auburn, New York-based Cayuga Milk Ingredients which processes approximately one billion gallons annually of milk.  Mr. Ellis, despite efforts to follow-up directly with Republic of Cuba government-operated entities and obtain directly assistance from Governor Cuomo, reported receiving neither responses nor orders.     

In 2020, the average cost per metric ton of milk powder from Auburn, New York, to Port Mariel, Republic of Cuba, was US$2,385.00 with shipping from the Port of New York/New Jersey (NY/NJ) adding US$185.00 per metric ton.  From the Port of NY/NJ to Port Mariel is 1,465 nautical miles taking approximately 3.1 days at sea. 

U.S. Exporters Have An Inverted Advantage

Given the Republic of Cuba's chronic shortage of foreign exchange, inability to remain current on sovereign debt, and routinely unable to pay as per contracted terms commercial debt owed by Republic of Cuba government-operated companies, there are an increasingly decreasing number of sources for credit.   

As a result, the Republic of Cuba has been forced to increase the percentage of purchases made with cash.   

Imports of agricultural commodities and food products from the United States are required by United States law to be paid for in cash; and shipping from the United States to the Republic of Cuba is from one to three days.   

For the Republic of Cuba, no longer is paying more for commodities solely due to the receipt of extended payment terms always a viable option- because the option is increasingly not available.    

At present, the less credit available to the Republic of Cuba inversely increases the value of sourcing exports from the United States despite the Republic of Cuba’s distain of laws, regulations, and policies of the United States.  The current landscape is for United States companies neither viable nor preferred for the long term. 

LINK TO COMPLETE ANALYSIS IN PDF FORMAT

Links To Related Analyses 

January 2022 Economic Eye On Cuba Monthly U.S. Export Report 

Coffee & Charcoal Have Been Imported From Cuba; U.S. Companies Want More. Agricultural Commodities/Food Products/Healthcare Products Have Been Exported To Cuba; U.S. Companies Want More. October 02, 2021 

AFP
Paris, France
3 February 2022

In the early days of communism in Cuba, Fidel Castro had pledged that every child under seven would have a liter of subsidized milk every day. For some time, they did -- but today, many go without.  To circumvent the US embargo against Cuba and lagging domestic production, milk has to come from the other side of the world in an obstacle race that deprives many on the island of the staple.  

Regla Caridad Zayas, a 59-year-old diabetic, said the milk powder that the Cuban state supplies monthly to her and others with special dietary needs dried up months ago. She is supposed to get a kilo of powder, which makes 10 liters (2.6 gallons) of milk, every month. Sitting at a rickety table from which she sells coffee outside her house, Zayas said the bodegas, or subsidized food stores, no longer carry the commodity.  In the supermarket, it is also nigh impossible to find: milk has become the latest casualty in a long history of chronic food shortages in Cuba, which on Monday marks six decades of US sanctions. And it will continue to be in short supply in Havana and four other provinces, due to a lack of "financing, boats and suppliers," Internal Trade Minister Betsy Diaz said in October.  

To find milk powder, Cuba looks all the way to New Zealand -- its main supplier with 18,470 tons in 2020 -- as well as Belgium (6,628 tons) and Uruguay (3,695 tons), according to specialized export and import data site Trade Map.  Official Cuban data shows that the island produced 455 million kilograms of fresh milk in 2020, far short of what it needs.  According to the PanAmerican Dairy Federation, each person should have access to 150 liters of milk per year -- some 1.6 billion liters, and about the same in kilograms, for Cuba's 11.2 million inhabitants.  

The cheapest and easiest would be to get the milk from the United States -- one of the world's largest exporters and less than 200 kilometers (124 miles) from Cuba's coastline.  Since 2000, food products have been excluded from the US embargo on trade with Havana. But Cuba must pay cash and in advance -- onerous conditions for a country in deep economic crisis, with little foreign exchange and no access to loans.  Getting products from the other side of the planet is not easy, either: more than 10,000 containers of food and other products were stuck last month in ports around the world due to pandemic supply chain issues, the government said.  

For decades, revolutionary leader-turned-president Fidel Castro made a point of supplying cheap, subsidized milk to all children under the age of seven and people with chronic diseases. His brother and successor Raul proposed in 2007 to go even further by "producing milk so that all those who want to drink a glass of milk can do it."  But today, even the guaranteed monthly ration of three kilos of powdered milk for children is running out. For other recipients such as Zayas, there is none.  “Truly, everything is disappearing," said Claudia Coronado, a 29-year-old mother of two children aged three and seven, while standing in one of Havana's ubiquitous food queues. "We were used to not having chicken for a month, but milk, that was always sacrosanct.”  "I have a daughter of eight, she's no longer getting milk," said Jenny Mora, 29, who said she often has no choice but to turn to the black market and pay exorbitant prices.  

The store outside of which the two women are queuing only accepts foreign currency -- itself also only available on the parallel market. A sachet of one kilogram (two pounds) of milk powder costs $6.30 -- a fortune in a country where the average monthly salary is $163.  Economist Omar Everleny Perez said that without government help, it was more profitable for farmers to sell their product on the black market.  Farmer Domingo Diaz, 79, blames the US embargo for "about 90 percent" of the milk shortage. He blames the communist government for the rest. Though it raised the purchase price to help producers, the government did nothing to secure access to cow feed, he said. undernourished, the animals produce very little. "The milk problem affects everyone, it drives me mad, too," said Diaz, as he tried to squeeze milk from a lean beast.

Is ZIM Of Israel Servicing Port In Cuba? Yes, 2016 Through 2021. Unclear Is 2022. Fear Of Becoming Sixth Shipping Company To Be Defendant In Libertad Act Lawsuit? Cautious? Or All Normal?

Is Israel’s ZIM Shipping Servicing Cuba? Yes, 2016 To 2021. Unclear In 2022.
Was Simple To Obtain Shipping Information And Schedules In 2021.

Is ZIM Concerned?  A.P. Moller-Maersk A/S, CMA CGM Group, Crowley Maritime Corporation, MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company SA, Seaboard Marine, Ltd. Defendants In Libertad Act Title III Lawsuits.     

Haifa, Israel-based ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd. (2021 revenues approximately US$9 billion) has provided services for the Republic of Cuba and from the United States to the Republic of Cuba including to Terminal de Contanedores de Mariel SA (TC Mariel).    

• No reference to the Republic of Cuba in the Zim Integrated Shipping Services Limited in 31 December 2019 Consolidated Financial Statements.  

• No reference to the Republic of Cuba in Form 20-F submitted on 21 March 2021 to the United States Securities And Exchange Commission (SEC). 

• Reference to the Republic of Cuba under the caption “Intra America & Caribbean” as CUX- Cuba Express on page eleven of the fifteen-page Zim Complete Sales Kit.  LINK 

• Reference to the Republic of Cuba in the three-page ZIM World Trade Lines under the caption “Intra America & Caribbean” as CUX- Cuba Express on page two.  LINK 

In October 2016, the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) of the United States Department of the Treasury revised a regulation that prohibits unless authorized by the OFAC a vessel that visits the Republic of Cuba from entering a port in the United States within 180 days of its departure from the Republic of Cuba.  Vessels originating from ports outside of the United States and transiting through the Republic of Cuba may use the 180-day rule revision provided the vessel does not load non-approved cargoes bound for the United States.  ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd provided service from the Port of Mobile. Alabama, and the Port of Mariel, Republic of Cuba. 

On 30 December 2020, ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd. filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) a registration statement on Form F-1 for an Initial Public Offering (IPO) in the United States.  The company expected to raise US$300 million to US$500 million providing the company with a market capitalization of US$1.5 billion.  New York, New York-based Citigroup Inc., New York, New York-based Goldman Sachs & Co., LLC., and London, United Kingdom-based Barclays plc were global coordinators and New York, New York-based Jefferies Group LLC and Oslo, Norway-based Clarksons Platou Securities AS acted as joint bookrunners for the proposed offering.   

Mr. Eyal Ofer, a member of the family that controls ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd., has since 1995 served as a Director of Miami, Florida-based Royal Caribbean Group (2019 revenues US$10.9 billion).  Ofer family members have been major shareholders of Royal Caribbean Group. 

“Eyal M. Ofer has served as a director of the Company since May 1995. Mr. Ofer is a global maritime shipping and real estate business leader and philanthropist. As the Chairman of a multi-generational family group, Ofer Global, he leads a private portfolio of international businesses principally focused on shipping, real estate, energy, technology, banking and investments. Its interests span Europe, North America, the Near East, Australasia and South East Asia. Mr. Ofer heads Ofer Global’s various divisions, including: Zodiac Group, an international shipping enterprise operating a diversified fleet of over 160 vessels worldwide; Global Holdings Group, a real estate holding group specializing in large scale iconic office buildings, hotels and luxury residential developments, as well as other investment and development assets; and O.G. Tech Ventures, a single LP Venture Capital fund with a focus on Round A tech investments. Mr. Ofer also chairs the Eyal & Marilyn Ofer Family Foundation, a philanthropic foundation established for the charitable giving of his family in support of education and the arts.” 

From the Royal Caribbean Group 2019 Form SEC 10-K filing: “On August 27, 2019, two lawsuits were filed against Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida under Title III of the Cuban Liberty and Democratic Solidarity Act, also known as the Helms-Burton Act.” 

“Libertad Act” 

The Trump Administration on 2 May 2019 made operational Title III of the Cuban Liberty and Democratic Solidarity Act of 1996 (known as “Libertad Act”).  Title III authorizes lawsuits in United States District Courts against companies and individuals who are using a certified claim or non-certified claim where the owner of the certified claim or non-certified claim has not received compensation from the Republic of Cuba or from a third-party who is using (“trafficking”) the asset.  Thus far, forty-two (42) Title III lawsuits have been filed in jurisdictions throughout the United States.  LINK To Libertad Act Lawsuit Statistics  

Port Mariel 

The Revolutionary Armed Forces (FAR) of the Republic of Cuba-controls Grupo de Administración Empresarial S.A. (GAESA), which has interests in the tourism, financial investment, import/export, and remittance sectors.  The Special Development Zone of Mariel (ZEDM) is managed by Republic of Cuba government-operated Almacenes Universales S.A., a subsidiary of GAESA.  Almacenes Universales S.A. focuses upon “professional, technical and skilled workers linked to logistics activities, warehousing, transportation and port activities.”   

GAESA is on the State Department’s List of Restricted Entities and Subentities Associated with Cuba (“Cuba Restricted List” or “CRL”).  The CRL is a list of entities and subentities “under the control of, or acting for or on behalf of, the Cuban military, intelligence, or security services or personnel with which direct financial transactions would disproportionately benefit such services or personnel at the expense of the Cuban people or private enterprise in Cuba.”  GAESA is on the List of Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons by the OFAC pursuant to the Cuban Assets Control Regulations (CACR), 31 C.F.R. part 515.  

Since 2013, vessels from the United States and other countries have been calling at TC Mariel, located approximately forty (road) miles from the city of Havana.  TC Mariel is managed by Singapore-based PSA International Pte Ltd (2019 revenues approximately US$4 billion).  The container terminal is within the 180-square-mile ZEDM.  The facility has 2,300 feet of jetty and four quay cranes which can accommodate 13,000 TEU Neo-Panamax vessels.    

Libertad Act Lawsuits Filed Against Shipping Companies For Using Port Mariel 

ODETTE BLANCO DE FERNANDEZ née BLANCO ROSELL; EMMA RUTH BLANCO, in her personal capacity, and as Personal Representative of the ESTATE OF ALFREDO BLANCO ROSELL, JR; HEBE BLANCO MIYARES, in her personal capacity, and as Personal Representative of the ESTATE OF BYRON BLANCO ROSELL; SERGIO BLANCO DE LA TORRE, in his personal capacity, and as Administrator Ad Litem of the ESTATE OF ENRIQUE BLANCO ROSELL; EDUARDO BLANCO DE LA TORRE, as Administrator Ad Litem of the ESTATE OF FLORENTINO BLANCO ROSELL; LIANA MARIA BLANCO; SUSANNAH VALENTINA BLANCO; LYDIA BLANCO BONAFONTE; JACQUELINE M. DELGADO; BYRON BLANCO, JR.; MAGDELENA BLANCO MONTOTO; FLORENTINO BLANCO DE LA TORRE; JOSEPH E. BUSHMAN; CARLOS BLANCO DE LA TORRE; and GUILLERMO BLANCO DE LA TORRE; Plaintiffs, v. MSC MEDITERRANEAN SHIPPING COMPANY SA. [1:21-cv-23400; Florida Southern District].  Clerk Default Judgement Entered By Court On 1/25/22.   

Horr, Novak & Skipp, P.A. (plaintiff)
Law Offices Of John S. Gaebe P.A. (plaintiff)
Berliner Corcoran & Rowe LLP (plaintiff)
Fields PLLC (plaintiff)
Arnold & Porter Kaye Scholer LLP (defendant)

ODETTE BLANCO DE FERNANDEZ née BLANCO ROSELL; EMMA RUTH BLANCO, in her personal capacity, and as Personal Representative of the ESTATE OF ALFREDO BLANCO ROSELL, JR; HEBE BLANCO MIYARES, in her personal capacity, and as Personal Representative of the ESTATE OF BYRON BLANCO ROSELL; SERGIO BLANCO DE LA TORRE, in his personal capacity, and as Administrator Ad Litem of the ESTATE OF ENRIQUE BLANCO ROSELL; EDUARDO BLANCO DE LA TORRE, as Administrator Ad Litem of the ESTATE OF FLORENTINO BLANCO ROSELL; LIANA MARIA BLANCO; SUSANNAH VALENTINA BLANCO; LYDIA BLANCO BONAFONTE; JACQUELINE M. DELGADO; BYRON BLANCO, JR.; MAGDALENA BLANCO MONTOTO; FLORENTINO BLANCO DE LA TORRE; JOSEPH E. BUSHMAN; CARLOS BLANCO DE LA TORRE; and GUILLERMO BLANCO DE LA TORRE; Plaintiffs, v. CMA CGM S.A. (a/k/a CMA CGM THE FRENCH LINE; a/k/a CMA CGM GROUP); CMA CGM (AMERICA) LLC.  [1:21-cv-22778; Southern Florida District]  

Berliner Corcoran & Rowe LLP (plaintiff)
Horr, Novak & Skipp P.A. (plaintiff)
Fields PLLC (plaintiff)
Law Offices of John S. Gaebe P.A. (plaintiff)

ODETTE BLANCO DE FERNANDEZ née BLANCO ROSELL; EMMA RUTH BLANCO, in her personal capacity, and as Personal Representative of the ESTATE OF ALFREDO BLANCO ROSELL, JR; HEBE BLANCO MIYARES, in her personal capacity, and as Personal Representative of the ESTATE OF BYRON BLANCO ROSELL; SERGIO BLANCO DE LA TORRE, in his personal capacity, and as Administrator Ad Litem of the ESTATE OF ENRIQUE BLANCO ROSELL; EDUARDO BLANCO DE LA TORRE, as Administrator Ad Litem of the ESTATE OF FLORENTINO BLANCO ROSELL; LIANA MARIA BLANCO; SUSANNAH VALENTINA BLANCO; LYDIA BLANCO BONAFONTE; JACQUELINE M. DELGADO; BYRON DIAZ BLANCO, JR.; MAGDELENA BLANCO MONTOTO; FLORENTINO BLANCO DE LA TORRE; JOSEPH E. BUSHMAN; CARLOS BLANCO DE LA TORRE; and GUILLERMO BLANCO DE LA TORRE VERSUS A.P. MOLLER-MAERSK A/S (a/k/a A.P. MOLLER-MAERSK GROUP); MAERSK A/S (a/k/a MAERSK LINE A/S); MAERSK, INC.; and MAERSK AGENCY U.S.A., INC [2:21-cv-00339; Eastern District of Louisiana].

Pusateri, Johnston, Guillot & Greenbaum, LLC (plaintiff)
Berliner Corcoran & Rowe LLP (plaintiff)
Fields PLLC (plaintiff)

ODETTE BLANCO DE FERNANDEZ née BLANCO ROSELL, Plaintiff, v. CROWLEY MARITIME CORPORATION, Defendant. [3:20-cv-01426 Middle District Florida; Transferred To Florida Southern District 1:21-cv-20443]. 

Murphy & Anderson, P.A. (plaintiff)
Berliner Corcoran & Rowe LLP (plaintiff)
Fields PLLC (plaintiff)
Law Offices of John S. Gaebe P.A. (plaintiff)
Horr, Novak & Skipp P.A. (plaintiff)
Venable LLP (defendant)

ODETTE BLANCO DE FERNANDEZ née BLANCO ROSELL, Plaintiff, v. SEABOARD   MARINE, LTD., Defendant. [1:20-cv-25176; Southern Florida District].

Horr, Novak & Skipp, P.A. (plaintiff)
Law Offices of John S. Gaebe (plaintiff)
Berliner Corcoran & Rowe LLP (plaintiff)
Fields (plaintiff)
Barakat Law (plaintiff)
Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP (defendant)

LINK TO COMPLETE ANALYSIS IN PDF FORMAT

LINKS To Previously-Published Analyses 

Will Israel Shipping Company About To IPO In U.S. Become 33rd Libertad Act Lawsuit? Project For Jared Kushner?  January 06, 2021 

Journal of Commerce: Mariel port head outlines Cuba’s long-term shipping prospects September 05, 2016

Below As Of 6 February 2022

Below As Of 6 January 2021

World's Largest Shipping Company, MSC Of Switzerland, To Respond (As Expected) To Clerk Default Judgement In Libertad Act Lawsuit For Using Cuba Port; Retains Arnold & Porter Kaye Scholer

From MSC: “At MSC we offer reliable and efficient shipping services to and from Cuba, for a host of markets and suppliers seeking to do business in and out of the Republic of Cuba.  If this is the first time you’ve shipped to the largest island in the Caribbean be sure to take a look at our in-depth country guide, covering everything from general trade information to import and export procedures, designed to ensure the smooth transport of your goods to or from Cuba.” 

ODETTE BLANCO DE FERNANDEZ née BLANCO ROSELL; EMMA RUTH BLANCO, in her personal capacity, and as Personal Representative of the ESTATE OF ALFREDO BLANCO ROSELL, JR; HEBE BLANCO MIYARES, in her personal capacity, and as Personal Representative of the ESTATE OF BYRON BLANCO ROSELL; SERGIO BLANCO DE LA TORRE, in his personal capacity, and as Administrator Ad Litem of the ESTATE OF ENRIQUE BLANCO ROSELL; EDUARDO BLANCO DE LA TORRE, as Administrator Ad Litem of the ESTATE OF FLORENTINO BLANCO ROSELL; LIANA MARIA BLANCO; SUSANNAH VALENTINA BLANCO; LYDIA BLANCO BONAFONTE; JACQUELINE M. DELGADO; BYRON BLANCO, JR.; MAGDELENA BLANCO MONTOTO; FLORENTINO BLANCO DE LA TORRE; JOSEPH E. BUSHMAN; CARLOS BLANCO DE LA TORRE; and GUILLERMO BLANCO DE LA TORRE; Plaintiffs, v. MSC MEDITERRANEAN SHIPPING COMPANY SA. [1:21-cv-23400; Florida Southern District].  Clerk Default Judgement Entered By Court On 1/25/22.   

Horr, Novak & Skipp, P.A. (plaintiff)
Law Offices Of John S. Gaebe P.A. (plaintiff)
Berliner Corcoran & Rowe LLP (plaintiff)
Fields PLLC (plaintiff)
Arnold & Porter Kaye Scholer LLP (defendant)

Excerpt: 

“Defendant MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company SA SHALL file its response to the Complaint, (ECF No. 1), on or before Monday, May 9, 2022. No extensions will be granted absent compelling circumstances.”  

Links To Court Filings
Order On Final Default Judgement Procedure (1/28/22)
Certificate Of Service (2/5/22)
Joint Stipulation Regarding Waiver Of Service Of Summons, Set Aside Of The Entry Of Default, And Response To The Complaint (2/7/22)
Order Reopening Case (2/8/22)

First Clerk Default Judgement: Switzerland-Based MSC Shipping Does Not Respond To Libertad Act Lawsuit. Judge Must Rule. Will Defendant Challenge? Probably. Damages Trial Likely Next.  January 25, 2022

LINK To Libertad Act Lawsuit Filing Statistics

96,760 Cuban Nationals Entered Re-Emerging Private Sector In 2021. Number Of Micro, Small & Medium-Size Enterprises (MSME's) Increased To 1,812.

Granma
Havana, Republic of Cuba
7 February 2022

Aumentó en 2021 la motivación por el trabajo: se emplearon 236 000 cubanos

De acuerdo con los datos del MTSS, a 236 000 personas se les asignó ocupación, y 12 655 no se ubicaron, pero accedieron a cursos de habilitación para desempeñar oficios y empezaron a prepararse

Autor: Yenia Silva Correa

La implementación de la Tarea Ordenamiento, desde su concepción, procura propiciar mayor interés por incorporarse a trabajar, y, cuantitativamente, esa motivación aumentó en 2021.

«Si en 2020 el Ministerio de Trabajo y Seguridad Social (MTSS) registró que se emplearon unas 147 000 personas, al cerrar 2021 se habían ubicado 236 000», explicó a Granma Ariel Fonseca Quesada, director general de Empleo del MTSS.

Entre las personas de especial interés que el Código de Trabajo reconoce, a partir de la importancia que tiene lograr su ubicación laboral, están los graduados de las enseñanzas superior, técnico-profesional y de las escuelas de oficio, así como los licenciados del servicio militar y quienes egresan de establecimientos penitenciarios.

En 2021, entre quienes acudieron a las direcciones municipales de Trabajo, «los que más aumentaron fueron las personas sin vínculo laboral, y, de estos casos, 169 000 se incorporaron al empleo».

De acuerdo con los datos del MTSS, a 236 000 personas se les asignó ocupación, y 12 655 no se ubicaron, pero accedieron a cursos de habilitación para desempeñar oficios y empezaron a prepararse. Como parte de esta estrategia, se busca atraer más fuerza de trabajo hacia actividades productivas y menos hacia el sector presupuestado.

«El año pasado, el 59 % de esas personas vinculadas se ubicó en el sector estatal, y el 41 % restante en el no estatal. De los trabajadores que se insertaron en el sector estatal, el 70 % lo hizo en el ámbito empresarial y el 30 % en el presupuestado». Fonseca Quesada especificó que «de ese 30 %, más de la mitad se incorporó al sector de la Salud, vinculada al enfrentamiento a la covid-19».

También el año pasado se emplearon más de 5 000 personas en el ramo cooperativo, «en el cual todavía hay reservas de empleo».

Las cifras hablan del interés del Estado en ofrecer trabajo a mujeres y jóvenes, pues el 35 % de los ubicados no rebasa los 35 años, y el 34 % es del sexo femenino.

«Lo que originó que aumentara la motivación para el empleo se mantiene; ahora tenemos que lograr que las estrategias de empleo en los municipios se parezcan y respondan a las necesidades reales del desarrollo local, y que incluso, desde la comunidad se genere la posibilidad de trabajar», argumentó el Director General de Empleo del MTSS.

English Translation (Google)

Motivation for work increased in 2021: 236,000 Cubans were employed

According to MTSS data, 236,000 people were assigned a job, and 12,655 were not located, but they accessed qualification courses to perform trades and began to prepare

Author: Yenia Silva Correa

The implementation of the Planning Task, from its conception, seeks to foster greater interest in joining work, and, quantitatively, this motivation increased in 2021.

"If in 2020 the Ministry of Labor and Social Security (MTSS) registered that some 147,000 people were employed, by the end of 2021 236,000 had been located," Ariel Fonseca Quesada, general director of Employment of the MTSS, explained to Granma.

Among the people of special interest that the Labor Code recognizes, based on the importance of achieving their job location, are graduates of higher education, technical-professional and trade schools, as well as graduates of military service. and those who leave penitentiary establishments.

In 2021, among those who went to the municipal Labor directorates, "those who increased the most were people without employment, and, of these cases, 169,000 joined employment."

According to MTSS data, 236,000 people were assigned a job, and 12,655 were not located, but accessed qualification courses to perform trades and began to prepare. As part of this strategy, it seeks to attract more labor force to productive activities and less to the budgeted sector.

«Last year, 59% of those linked people were located in the state sector, and the remaining 41% in the non-state sector. Of the workers who entered the state sector, 70% did so in the business sphere and 30% in the budgeted sector. Fonseca Quesada specified that “of that 30%, more than half joined the Health sector, linked to the confrontation with covid-19.”

Also last year, more than 5,000 people were employed in the cooperative branch, "in which there are still job reserves."

The figures speak of the interest of the State in offering work to women and young people, since 35% of those located do not exceed 35 years of age, and 34% are female.

“What caused the motivation for employment to increase remains; Now we have to ensure that the employment strategies in the municipalities resemble and respond to the real needs of local development, and that even, from the community, the possibility of working is generated, "argued the General Director of Employment of the MTSS.

From U.S. Department Of State: There Is A "lack of trained mechanics on the island to service electric vehicles." So, Who Are Servicing These Vehicles? Is The Video "Fake News"

Ministry of Transport of the Republic of Cuba (MINTRANS): Before 2030, MINTRANS plans for 45% of the total number of vehicles owned by Republic of Cuba government-operated companies will be electric vehicles.  A goal is to introduce more than 56,000 electric vehicles of which about 36,000 will be imported while 17,000 will be retrofitted from existing combustion engine vehicles.  A goal is to install 38,000 charging stations throughout the country with 16,000 fast charging stations and the remainder slow or semi-fast charging stations.  An additional 2,000 slow and fast charging stations will in public places while 180 50KV fast charging stations will be located to supply public services.  The first Cuban company to utilize electric vehicles in the Republic of Cuba was Republic of Cuba government-operated Aguas de la Habana.  The company operates a twenty-two Nissan e-NV200 vehicles.  LINK To YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uNhxN0aevXc

On 3 December 2021, a spokesperson of the United States Department of State was quoted: “The Biden Administration has clearly articulated the United States’ goal to accelerate and deploy electric vehicles and charging stations, create good-paying, union jobs, and enable a clean transportation future to combat climate change. However, the United States Embassy in Cuba does not operate any electric vehicles nor has any solar power charging stations at our Embassy compound or residences in Havana. At this time, it would be unlikely that the United States Embassy consider importing one or more electric vehicles for use in Cuba in the near future due to impediments in the electrical infrastructure and lack of trained mechanics on the island to service electric vehicles.”   

Currently operating in the Republic of Cuba are Amsterdam, Netherlands-based Stellantis N.V.-owned Sochaux, France-based Peugeot DTSR-171 electric vans (through Republic of Cuba-based distributor) and Yokohama, Japan-based Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., Nissan NV200e electric vans. Republic of Cuba government-operated companies Aguas de la Habana (with twenty-two vehicles) and ETECSA use electric vans. These companies would not be using electric vehicles in the Republic of Cuba if mechanics were lacking. 

Links To Republic Of Cuba EV-Related Analyses

U.S. Department Of State Appoints "Chief Sustainability Officer"- Mandate Text Includes Focus On "Electrifying Fleet" And "Host Partners" Does This Mean EVs For Cuba? President Biden Supports? February 10, 2022 

While Promoting EV Use In The United States, Biden-Harris Administration Refuses To Permit Exports Of EVs To Cuba For Use By Re-Emerging Private Sector- And U.S. Embassy In Havana Does Not Want One. February 08, 2022

Surprise Decision: Biden-Harris Administration Renews Trump-Pence Administration License To Export EVs To Embassies In Cuba. Company Offers To Donate EV Chargers To U.S. Embassy/Ambassador Residence  January 25, 2022 

President Biden Rejects BIS License Application To Export Electric Vehicles/Chargers To Cuba's Self-Employed, MSME's. Reversal Of "General Policy Of Approval." President Trump Authorized EV Exports.  December 20, 2021  

Beginning Today Residents Of Cuba May Purchase And Install Residential Solar Systems. Cost 55,000.00 Pesos (US$2,300.00). Call 7833-3333.  November 04, 2021  

Cuba Has Nickel And Cobalt. Vehicle Electric Batteries Use Nickel And Cobalt. Cuba Should Benefit.  September 25, 2021  

Cuba Owes Partner Canada's Sherritt International Corporation Tens Of Millions Of US Dollars. But, Both Cuba & Patient Company (And Shareholders) Anticipate Profitable Role With Electric Vehicles.  July 03, 2021  

Restriction On Sale Of Premium Gasoline May Benefit Electric Vehicles & Solar Panels; Embassies Concerned.  April 07, 2017  

Florida Company Receives License To Export Electric Vehicles To Cuba; Charging Stations From New Jersey-Based Company.  January 25, 2017