Private vehicle purchase to help Cuban economy overhaul

The Cuban government has authorised the private purchase of vehicles, one of the most awaited measures relevant to the overhaul of Cuban economy.



According to local media in Cuba, the measure includes the purchase of new cars at dealerships by Cubans, who receive hard-currency income, or those who are on state assignments with a licence from the Transport Ministry.



Under the changes permanent or temporary foreign residents will be able to purchase cars in Cuba or import them, with a limit of up to two vehicles during their stay in the country.



Cuban citizens were only allowed to purchase or sell cars introduced in the island before 1959, most of which were made in the United States.



Tens of thousands of professionals, who purchased Soviet-made cars for their work before 1990 can now sell them to any Cuban or foreign resident.



The decree came into force on Wednesday.



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