LUBBOCK, TEXAS (RFD NEWS) — U.S. ag and food shipments to Cuba grew in 2025, even as legal and policy risk around Cuba trade remains a moving target for exporters. Data for January through November put U.S. food and agricultural exports to Cuba at $443.9 million, up 13.2 percent from the same period a year earlier.
The product mix indicates that Cuba relies heavily on U.S. protein and dairy channels.
Poultry shipments — led by frozen chicken leg quarters and other chicken cuts — were joined by sizable pork categories, including frozen swine cuts and processed pork items. Dairy lines were also prominent, including milk and cream products, butter, yogurt, and multiple cheese categories.
Staples and ingredients include rice, wheat flour, corn-based foods, beans, vegetables, and shelf-stable prepared foods.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Cuba remains a steady, nearby buyer of U.S. poultry, pork, dairy, and staples, but legal and compliance risks could still affect shipping and payment channels.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
Most movement ran through Southeast export lanes, particularly Miami and Tampa, reinforcing the Gulf-to-Caribbean logistics corridor. That corridor can be sensitive to financing and compliance shifts that ripple through shippers and banks.
Later this month, Supreme Court arguments in two Helms-Burton cases are being watched for signals that could raise or lower legal exposure tied to Cuba-linked property claims, adding another layer of uncertainty around trade mechanics.
Rail logistics remain supportive, with access to Mexico improving
March 01, 2026 05:00 PM
·
Agriculture Freedom Zones reflect rising concern that data center growth must not strain rural grids or displace productive farmland.
February 28, 2026 05:00 PM
·
Colorado Congressman Jeff Hurd joins Champions of Rural America to share insights into the Western Caucus legislative priorities as they champion wildfire prevention and mitigation in the West.
February 27, 2026 02:35 PM
·
NCBA Chief Counsel Mary-Thomas Hart discussed the legal process behind delisting the prairie chicken, the challenges ranchers faced under the bird’s previous protections, and the benefits of cooperative habitat management for both livestock and wildlife.
February 27, 2026 10:55 AM
·
U.S.-Mexico agricultural trade faces uncertainty in 2026 as tariffs and cartel violence threaten farmers and ranchers. Congressman Henry Cuellar and Texas leaders weigh in on impacts and risks.
February 27, 2026 09:00 AM
·
Farm Bureau economist Danny Munch explains the importance of timely enrollment, and how the program helps dairy producers safeguard their operations against volatile milk markets.
February 26, 2026 02:25 PM
·
