An overview of the embargo against Cuba and its impact on the Island’s agricultural and food sectors

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the impact of the U.S. embargo on Cuba’s agricultural and food sectors. Historically, the United States and Cuba enjoyed strong agricultural ties prior to the Cuban Revolution in 1959. However, the imposition of the embargo drastically reduced bilateral trade by prohibiting dollar transactions related to Cuba and banning any commercial transit from the island to the United States. The resulting disruptions coincided with major constraints in Cuba’s agricultural production, plausibly limiting access to vital inputs, markets and financing. Over time, these measures exacerbated the country’s economic challenges, forcing Cuba to develop alternative sources of trade and fostering policy shifts towards self-sufficiency. Drawing on official statistics from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), United Nation Comtrade, and UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD), and combining historical policy review with descriptive and comparative data analysis, the article examines key historical milestones, economic indicators, and policy changes to assesses the broader impact of the embargo on food security and rural livelihoods. The findings highlight the lasting socio-economic impact of extraterritorial sanctions on vulnerable sectors within developing countries and conclude with policy recommendations.