The dollar rises on the Cuban informal market: the currency is close to 380 CUP

According to the digital media El ToqueOn June 17, the dollar's price rose on the Cuban informal market: the US currency was close to 380 pesos, while other currencies, such as the euro, saw their value decrease on the street.

The informal foreign exchange market in Cuba continues to set the economic tone for everyday Cubans. This luneJune 17th 2025, US dollar (USD) It is quoted in 376 CUP, which represents a increase of 1 Cuban peso compared to the previous day, according to the Touch.

On digital platforms and exchange networks, the dollar via Zelle is positioned even higher, reaching 378 CUP, with a rise of 3 pesos.

This behavior reflects a growing distrust in the Cuban peso (CUP) and high demand for foreign currency, especially in a context of scarcity, inflation and partial dollarization of consumption.

Despite that el Central Bank of Cuba (BCC) maintains a official exchange rate of 120 CUP for 1 USD, the real rate in the informal market exceeds that figure by more than 200%, which highlights the disconnect between official monetary policies and the street economy.

According to data valid from June 16 to 17, euro (EUR) It also experiences movements: it goes down to the 410 CUP, Whereas the MLC remains stable at 260 CUP. For its part, the Canadian dollar (CAD) remains at 245 CUP.

Why is the dollar rising on the Cuban informal market today?

Experts point to several factors behind the rise of the informal dollar in Cuba, such as the limited access to foreign currency in banks and official exchange offices, such as Cadeca. Growing demand for everyday transactions, mainly purchases in stores in MLC and payments for digital services. Low credibility in the national currency, exacerbated by inflation and shortages of essential goods.

The Central Bank, for its part, continues to publish its official rate, which for the USD stands at 24 CUP for interbank operations and in 120 CUP for the population.

However, these rates do not reflect the true dynamics of the informal market, which serves as an economic thermometer for millions of Cubans.