The Cuban communications sector closed 2025 marked by a series of policy moves, public debates and technology demonstrations that together point to a renewed drive for digital transformation. State operator Etecsa announced a significant increase in mobile data tariffs on 30 May, a measure intended to shore up services and enable investment in infrastructure, but which also provoked public discontent over affordability.
Cuba digital transformation progress and challenges
Alongside the tariff change, Etecsa introduced higher prepaid recharge caps — up to 360 Cuban pesos within a 30-day window — and enabled the use of data plans across networks. Authorities framed the adjustment as necessary to sustain and improve service quality and to finance technological development. Critics argued the move risks excluding vulnerable users at a time when online access is increasingly essential for education, commerce and civic life.
Throughout the year Cuban institutions sought to broaden the policy and technical foundations for digital growth. In March Havana hosted international gatherings that drew technologists and young leaders. The ITU World Youth Summit in Varadero convened participants to discuss emerging technologies, digital skills and responsible uses of artificial intelligence. A week later, ministers and senior officials met at the IV International Patria Colloquium to examine information and communication policies.
In April the Ministry of Communications (Mincom) unveiled three sectoral programmes covering 2026 to 2030 designed to accelerate the application of science, technology and innovation across state and private projects. During the second half of the year Mincom intensified efforts to implement the Digital Transformation Policy, the Cuban Digital Agenda and the national strategy for the development and use of artificial intelligence.
The Caribbean Internet Governance Forum held its 21st edition in August at the Varadero convention centre, bringing together regional experts, academics and youth leaders. Delegates discussed how to adapt information technologies to the realities of small island states facing economic constraints and climate-related risks, and reaffirmed Cuba’s commitment to advancing digital governance and resilience.
National initiatives aimed to build local capacity. The IV National Cybersecurity Week in November raised public awareness through workshops, technical exercises and simulated incident responses. At the same month’s Havana International Fair, Mincom showcased domestic AI solutions, notably “Cecilia”, a national language model designed to support an emerging generative AI ecosystem. The ministry’s exhibition won a grand prize for its presentation and coherence.
Other digital milestones included Enzona’s updated e‑commerce platform releases in December, which promised faster transactions and improved real-time decision tools, and the 15th anniversary of EcuRed, the Cuban collaborative encyclopedia. At the UN General Assembly session on 18 December Cuba’s permanent representative highlighted barriers to access to information and communications technologies, calling for international action to reduce those limitations.
Organisers announced the XX Convention and International Informatics Fair 2026 for late March in Havana under the theme “Transformation Digital for Sustainable Development”, signalling continuity in the effort to link technology with economic and social goals. For policymakers and industry leaders the challenge remains to reconcile investment and technical progress with measures that preserve affordability and inclusion.
Over the course of 2025 communications moved beyond their role as a simple bridge between people to become a lever for sustainable development and cultural identity. How Cuba balances service sustainability, technological innovation and social equity will shape the next phase of its digital transformation.
Key Takeaways:
- Etecsa raised mobile data tariffs in 2025 while rolling out expanded prepaid top-up options and cross-network data plans.
- National and international events — from the ITU World Summit to the Caribbean Internet Governance Forum — reinforced policy and youth engagement.
- Government programmes, cybersecurity campaigns and home-grown AI projects boosted Cuba digital transformation and local capacity.
- The sector’s advances aim to support sustainable development despite public concern over affordability.
