By Benson Daniel
A growing group of US political and business figures with links to President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio are positioning themselves around potential business opportunities in Cuba as Washington intensifies economic pressure on the island.
The activity is centred on the possibility of major political and economic change in Cuba, with investors, lobbyists, Cuban-American groups and other influential figures examining how the country’s valuable assets could be managed or transferred if the current government were to fall.
The developments come as the United States has increased sanctions and other economic measures against Cuba, contributing to the withdrawal or scaling back of several foreign companies operating on the island. Spanish hotel groups and other international businesses have faced growing pressure as Washington expands restrictions affecting companies that maintain commercial relationships with Cuba.
Among the assets attracting attention are opportunities in tourism, mining, energy, shipping and other sectors. The departure or reduced presence of some foreign investors has created potential openings for companies and investors prepared to operate within the changing US sanctions environment.
Several individuals and organisations connected to the Trump and Rubio political circles are reportedly involved in efforts to prepare for a possible post-government transition. Some are advising businesses on sanctions compliance, while others are exploring investment opportunities or plans for the country’s economic reconstruction.
The emerging activity also includes efforts involving Cuban-American investors. Groups linked to influential figures in Washington and Miami are discussing ways of mobilising private capital for a future Cuban economy, including possible investment in energy and other strategic industries.
One initiative has also been involved in discussions about the future of property and businesses that were expropriated by the Cuban government. Such plans could become significant if a future Cuban administration introduces measures to compensate former owners or restructure ownership of major assets.
The prospect of financial opportunities emerging alongside an aggressive sanctions campaign has also generated questions about conflicts of interest. Critics have questioned whether individuals benefiting from new business opportunities are also close to policymakers responsible for shaping US policy towards Cuba.
At the same time, Cuba is facing a severe economic crisis, including shortages, power disruptions and pressure on essential services. The Cuban government has maintained that the country’s difficulties are being worsened by US economic restrictions, while Washington has continued to use sanctions and economic pressure as part of its broader policy towards Havana.
The future of Cuba’s economy therefore remains closely tied to the direction of US policy and the possibility of political change on the island. Any transition could trigger major questions over ownership, investment, compensation for expropriated property and control of strategic industries.
For investors and businesses watching Cuba, those questions could determine who gains access to the country’s resources and commercial opportunities if its political system undergoes a major transformation.
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