1. Economic context in Cuba: a landscape shaped by partial dollarization
In October 2025, the Cuban government released an extensive Program to Correct Distortions and Relaunch the Economy, which establishes partial dollarization as a key mechanism to attract foreign currency.
This measure does not stand alone. Cuba currently operates with two parallel exchange-rate systems:
- Official system: Exchange rates controlled by the Central Bank of Cuba
- Informal market (black market): Where major currencies such as the US dollar (USD) trade well above the official rate
What does partial dollarization mean in practice?
| Aspect | Impact on the Cuban economy |
|---|---|
| Pricing in foreign currency | Prices or payments that accept USD or MLC for specific goods, services, or stores |
| Monetary dependence | Greater reliance on hard currencies instead of the Cuban peso (CUP), resulting in a steep loss of purchasing power |
| Informal market | Rapid expansion of the informal FX market due to high demand and limited official liquidity |
Important: Partial dollarization has created a two-speed economy. People with access to foreign currency can buy goods and services that remain out of reach for those who only earn in CUP.
2. Exchange rates in the informal market: 2025 snapshot
Cuba’s informal market quotes rates far above the official figures. Recent data from elTOQUE, the watchdog that tracks informal exchange rates in real time, shows:
| Currency | Official rate (population) | Informal market | Gap |
|---|---|---|---|
| USD (US dollar) | 120 CUP | ~420 CUP | +250% |
| MLC (Moneda Libremente Convertible) | 120 CUP | ~200 CUP | +67% |
| EUR (Euro) | 140.60 CUP | ~465 CUP | +231% |
This gap between the official and informal rates creates major economic distortions that touch every player in the Cuban market.
Why it matters for senders in the Dominican Republic
When someone in the Dominican Republic sends top-ups, balance, or remittances to Cuba, the recipient faces an economy where:
- ✅ Every dollar sent can go much further than its CUP equivalent, yet it is highly exposed to volatility
- ✅ Top-ups or balance delivered must consider that many services (mobile data, MLC stores) already price in hard currency
- ✅ Fees and costs can change quickly as the informal market shifts
3. Direct impacts on top-ups, remittances, and mobile services
Mobile airtime and data top-ups
Because some data bundles, mobile services, or shops in Cuba already require MLC or dollar-equivalent pricing, senders and recipients should keep in mind:
- The recipient in Cuba may need to swap CUP for MLC or pay for services priced in hard currency
- Any transfer in CUP can lose real value quickly if the informal rate rises
- Sending platforms must keep conversions updated and guarantee delivery without loss
Remittances and cash flow
- Lower purchasing power: Money sent in CUP no longer stretches as far as it did a few years ago
- Preference for hard currency: Many recipients want USD or MLC whenever possible
- Limited access: Partial dollarization keeps some goods or services out of reach when paying only with CUP
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4. Recommendations for senders in the Dominican Republic
If you live in the Dominican Republic and want to send top-ups or remittances to Cuba, these tips are essential:
| Recommendation | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| 1. Monitor the informal exchange rate | It gives you a realistic estimate of the value your family will receive in Cuba |
| 2. Use transparent platforms | They update amounts at the time of sending and operate with full clarity |
| 3. Consider structured bundles | Data packages with minutes and SMS often deliver better value thanks to economies of scale |
| 4. Stay alert to volatility | Urgent transfers can cost more in CUP if the informal rate jumps |
| 5. Understand the recipient’s needs | They may need to convert CUP into MLC to pay for services priced in foreign currency |
Why is Billetaxo the best option from the Dominican Republic?
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Our rates update in real time and reflect the current market
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5. Conclusion: Understand the context to make better decisions
Cuba’s economy in 2025 is immersed in a transition driven by partial dollarization, elevated informal exchange rates, and a widening gap between the official and real value of the Cuban peso.
This reality directly influences mobile top-ups, money transfers, and service payments from abroad, including from the Dominican Republic.
Dominicans who want to stay connected with Cuba through top-ups, remittances, or mobile services need to understand this economic context to make informed decisions and maximize every transfer.
The value of every dollar, CUP, or MLC matters. The true impact of any transfer depends on the currency used as well as on how fast, transparent, and valuable the service is for the recipient on the island.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is partial dollarization in Cuba?
It is a system where certain goods, services, and stores accept or require payments in foreign currency (USD, MLC) instead of the Cuban peso (CUP), creating a two-speed economy.
What is the difference between the official and informal exchange rates in Cuba?
The official rate sets 1 USD = 120 CUP, while the informal market quotes 1 USD at roughly 420 CUP—a 250% gap that reflects the real scarcity of foreign currency and market demand.
Is it better to send top-ups or remittances in dollars or CUP?
It depends on how the recipient will use the funds. For MLC stores and dollarized services, foreign currency (USD/MLC) is preferable. For day-to-day expenses in CUP, direct top-ups may be more convenient.
How does the exchange-rate crisis affect mobile top-ups?
Data bundles and mobile services are increasingly priced in currency equivalents. It is crucial to rely on platforms that offer updated rates and guaranteed delivery to maximize value.
Why choose Billetaxo to send top-ups from the Dominican Republic?
Billetaxo offers up-to-date competitive rates, instant delivery in 2–5 minutes, a secure platform, and 24/7 support on WhatsApp—making it the most reliable option for sending top-ups to Cuba from the DR.
Sources and references
- elTOQUE. (2025, October 27). "Gobierno cubano publica su programa para «reimpulsar la economía»: continúa la dolarización". eltoque.com
- elTOQUE. (2025). "Precio del dólar en el mercado informal en Cuba hoy". eltoque.com
- Tribuna Cuba. (2025, January 29). "Dolarización parcial en Cuba: aspectos clave que debes conocer".
- CiberCuba. (2025, June 14). "Se mantiene activo el mercado negro de divisas en Cuba".
- Directorio Cubano. (2025). "Análisis de la brecha cambiaria en Cuba".
- Infobae. (2025). "Economía cubana y dolarización: reportes actualizados".
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