# Travel >> Destinations >> Central America

Current Events in Cuba (as of September 2021)

Note: The following reflects the situation up to my knowledge cutoff (September 2021). For the latest developments, consult reputable news outlets (BBC, Reuters, AP, Granma, OnCuba, etc.).

1. COVID-19 Response & Vaccines

Cuba gained international attention for its homegrown vaccines—Abdala and Soberana 02/Plus—becoming the first Latin American nation to develop and deploy its own COVID-19 vaccines. Mass vaccination campaigns achieved high coverage; case rates dropped sharply by mid-2021.

2. Economic Reforms & Opening

Expansion of private sector (cuentapropistas): new categories of self-employment, ability to hire employees.
Creation of special development zones (e.g., Mariel) to attract foreign investment.
Unification of dual currency (CUC phased out Jan 2021), though inflation and shortages persisted.

3. U.S.–Cuba Relations

Trump era (2017–2021): Tightened embargo—remittance caps, travel restrictions, entity list additions.
Biden administration: Promised policy review; as of Sept 2021, some family reunification and remittance easing under consideration, but core embargo unchanged.

4. July 2021 Protests

Unprecedented nationwide demonstrations (11 July) over power outages, food/medicine shortages, and political freedoms. Government responded with arrests, internet blackouts, and counter-rallies. Human rights groups raised due-process concerns.

5. International Medical Cooperation

Cuban medical brigades deployed to >40 countries during the pandemic (Italy, South Africa, Caribbean nations). Biotechnology exports (vaccines, interferon) generated revenue and soft power.

6. Venezuela Relationship

Deep alliance continues; Venezuelan oil shipments (critical for Cuba's energy) declined amid Venezuela's crisis, exacerbating fuel shortages and blackouts in Cuba.