Cuba Fuel Shortages Leave Vintage Shared Taxis Idle Since January

Cuba's fuel shortages have left many of the island's vintage American sedans idle since January. These vehicles, known locally as almendrones, function as shared taxis and have long served as a primary mode of transport for residents. The country produces about 40 percent of the fuel it consumes and relies on imports for the rest.

Officials have linked the current shortages to U.S. sanctions imposed since January that target oil shipments to Cuba.

Residents in Havana and surrounding areas report waiting months for fuel through a government reservation system. One 27-year-old mechanic in Las Minas said he registered in February and remains around position 2,800 on the list for a 20-liter allotment.

Daily blackouts lasting up to 20 hours have accompanied the fuel shortfall. The population already faces ongoing economic constraints and limited access to new vehicles.

Drivers have turned to Cuba's black market for fuel at prices reaching $8 per liter. Electric motorcycles imported from China and small electric vehicles charged by solar stations have appeared in greater numbers on city streets. A former University of Havana economist noted that almendrones remain essential because newer cars cost far more than most state-sector wages allow.

Tourism decline has also reduced demand for taxi services that rely on the older vehicles.