US Visitor Arrivals To Cuba Could Exceed 301,000 For 2016; US$660 Million Economic Impact In Cuba

In 2015, the Ministry of Tourism of the Republic of Cuba reported 161,233 visitors from the United States; this number excluded individuals of Cuban descent (with or without Republic of Cuba-issued passports) who visited the country.

The Ministry of Tourism of the Republic of Cuba reported that for the period January 2016 through June 2016, visitors from the United States increased by 84%.

For calendar year 2016, visitors from the United States to the Republic of Cuba could exceed 301,000 with the introduction of regularly-scheduled commercial flights which will increase frequency, destinations, and lower pricing and continuation of cruise ship operations (which are expected to increase).

The gross economic impact to the Republic of Cuba by the 301,000 visitors would exceed US$660 million (landing fees, cruise ship fees, baggage fees, visa fees, ground transportation, hotels, meals, tours, sundries, gifts, gratuities, etc.).

The Ministry of the Republic of Cuba reported 3,524,779 tourist arrivals in 2015 compared to 3,002,745 tourist arrivals in 2014.