TOP Questions and Answers on Obama’s Cuba Announcement
Top Questions and Answers in regards to the December 17, 2014 announcement by President Obama stating the U.S. will lay out “a new course in our relations with Cuba.”
Q: Will Cuban cigars be readily available for U.S. consumers? A: No.
Q: Will the Sanctions imposed by the Cuban Assets Control Regulations end? A: No, that would require Congressional approval.
Q: Will the changes take effect immediately? A: No, OFAC made it clear, changes will not be effective immediately. The changes may take place, but, the overall Cuba Sanctions will still stand. In order for the changes to take place OFAC has to amend its Cuban Assets Control Regulations and the Department of Commerce has to change its Export Administration Regulations. None of the changes will take effect until the new regulations are issued. OFAC advised it “expects to issue its regulatory amendments in the coming weeks”.
Q: Will any U.S. person be able to travel to Cuba for any reason? A: No, there are 12 specific “authorized traveler” categories, only those will be authorized to travel to Cuba. Q: What are the 12 specific “authorized traveler” categories? A: Family visits; official business of the U.S. government, foreign governments, and certain intergovernmental organizations; journalism; professional research and professional meetings; educational; religious; public performances, clinics, workshops, athletic and other competitions, and exhibitions; support for the Cuban people; humanitarian projects; activities of private foundations or research or educational institutes; exportation, importation, or transmission of information or information materials; and certain export transactions that may be considered for authorization under existing regulations and guidelines.
Q: Will any of […]