Trade with Cuba has collapsed to its lowest levels since 2017 as the Trump administration intensifies pressure on the island's government following the successful U.S. military operation that removed Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro from power in January.

Shipping data from maritime intelligence firm Windward shows no foreign-originating tankers arrived in Cuba during March, with port calls dropping from an average of 50 per month in 2025 to just 11 in March - all from domestic ports. Only three container ships from China, India and the Netherlands have reported Cuba as their intended destination, though these could change course.

The dramatic reduction in trade has occurred without the White House formally reimposing export restrictions that were loosened under the Biden administration. U.S. food exports to Cuba actually reached $490 million last year, the highest since 2009. However, companies and countries appear to be self-policing their Cuba trade amid escalating U.S. rhetoric and the continued presence of American warships in the Caribbean.

President Trump has made increasingly aggressive statements about Cuba, suggesting he would pursue what he called "a friendly takeover" and telling Latin American allies he would "take care" of Cuba after concluding military operations with Iran. In January, Trump signed an executive order threatening tariffs on countries that supply oil to Cuba and declared the U.S. would block Venezuelan oil shipments to the island.

The trade disruption has severely impacted Cuba's 11 million residents, who are experiencing widespread blackouts and breakdowns in medical services due to fuel shortages. Cuba produces only about 40 percent of the oil needed for its energy requirements and relies heavily on petroleum for electricity generation.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio has attempted to moderate some administration positions, announcing $3 million in humanitarian aid in January and allowing U.S. companies to sell fuel to private Cuban businesses. Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel has denounced what the government calls a "fuel blockade," stating that Cuba "does not attack" but has been "the victim of U.S. attacks for 66 years."