Cuba Facts

Cuba, State of the Caribbean; 110,861 km², 11.3 million residents (2019).In addition to the main island of Cuba (105,000 km ² ), there are a further number of islands, most of them small and uninhabited. Administratively, Cuba is divided into 14 provinces. The capital is Havana (2.1 million residents, 2017).

Country facts

• Republic of Cuba / Republic of Cuba
• Country abbreviation: CU
• Area: 110 861 km²
• Population (2019): 11.3 million residents
• Capital: Havana
• Main language: Spanish
• State: Republic
• Head of State and Head of Government: Miguel Díaz-Canel (President)
• Per capita GDP (2015): US $ 7,602
• GNI per capita (2011): US $ 5,880
• Currency unit: 1 peso = 100 centavos
• Currency code: CUP
• Country number (telephony): 53
• Internet domain name: cu
• Time difference compared to Sweden: −6
• National Day: July 26 (attack on Moncada Barracks, 1953)
• Independence Day: May 20, 1902

Nature

• Land use: forest (24%), agricultural land (31%), other (45%)
• Highest mountain: Turquino (1,974 m asl)

Population

• Population density (2019): 102 residents per km²
• Natural population growth (2019): 0%; birth rate 10 ‰, death rate 10 ‰
• Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (16%), 15-64 (70%), 65- (14%)
• Life expectancy (2019): men 77 years, women 81 years
• Infant mortality (2019): 4 per 1,000 live births
• Population forecast 2050: 10 million residents
• HDI (2017): 0.777 (place 73 of 189)
• Urbanization rate (2019): 77%
• Most populous cities (2017): Havana (2.1 million residents), Santiago de Cuba (433,000 residents)

Business

• Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (4%), industry (23%), service (73%)
• Exports (2017): US $ 2,630 million
• Main export products: oil, nickel, pharmaceuticals
• Main exporting countries: Venezuela, Spain, Russian Federation
• Imports (2017): USD 11,060 million
• Main import products: oil, food, machinery
• Main importing countries: China, Spain, Russian Federation
• Railway network (2017): 8,400 km

Geography

Location and Borders

Cuba is the largest island in the Caribbean, situated in the northern part of the Caribbean Sea, where it acts as a bridge between the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. The island is positioned to the south of the United States, approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles) from the southernmost point of Florida. Cuba is located at the intersection of the Caribbean Sea, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Atlantic Ocean, which provides it with a strategic maritime position that has influenced its historical, cultural, and economic development.

The Cuban archipelago consists of the main island of Cuba, the Isla de la Juventud (Isle of Youth), and several smaller islands and cays, many of which are uninhabited. Cuba has a coastline that stretches for about 3,700 kilometers (2,300 miles) and is marked by numerous bays, beaches, and coral reefs, which play an important role in the country’s tourism and fishing industries. The island is divided into 15 provinces and the special municipality of Isla de la Juventud.

Topography and Natural Features

Cuba’s topography is diverse, with mountains, plains, valleys, and coastal regions. The island is generally flat in the central and eastern parts, with the Sierra Maestra mountain range running along the southeastern coast. The Sierra Maestra is home to Cuba’s highest peak, Pico Turquino, which rises to 1,974 meters (6,476 feet). These mountains are of historical importance, as they were the base of operations for Fidel Castro’s revolutionary forces during the Cuban Revolution in the 1950s.

The western part of the island is marked by the Pinar del Río province, which is known for its limestone hills, valleys, and caves, such as the famous Vinales Valley. This region is one of the most fertile areas in the country and is recognized for its tobacco farming, which produces some of the world’s finest cigars.

Cuba’s inland regions are primarily characterized by plains and fertile valleys, which support agriculture. The island is also home to a variety of rivers, such as the Cauto and the Almendares, that contribute to the island’s irrigation and water systems. The country’s tropical forests and wetlands support an abundance of wildlife, including many endemic species.

Climate and Seasonal Variation

Cuba enjoys a tropical climate, with distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season, from May to October, brings warm temperatures and frequent rain showers, especially in the afternoons. This period is marked by high humidity levels and occasional hurricanes, which can cause damage to infrastructure, agriculture, and tourism in the island’s coastal areas. The dry season, from November to April, is characterized by cooler and drier conditions, making it the most popular time for tourists to visit.

Cuba’s climate is influenced by its proximity to the equator, as well as the surrounding waters of the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean. The country experiences year-round warm temperatures, with average highs ranging from 25°C (77°F) in the winter to 30°C (86°F) in the summer. These conditions, coupled with the island’s fertile land, allow for year-round agricultural production, particularly in the cultivation of sugarcane, tobacco, and citrus fruits.

While hurricanes can be a threat during the wet season, Cuba has developed a robust system of disaster preparedness to mitigate the impact of these natural events. Climate change, however, poses a growing concern, particularly for Cuba’s coastal areas and the surrounding coral reefs, which are sensitive to rising ocean temperatures and sea level rise.

People

Population and Demographics

Cuba has a population of approximately 11 million people, making it the most populous island in the Caribbean. The population is a mix of ethnicities, with the majority being of mixed-race (Mestizo) descent, a result of centuries of interaction between Indigenous peoples, African slaves, and European settlers, primarily from Spain. The population also includes people of European, African, and Asian descent, particularly Chinese Cubans, who arrived during the 19th century.

Cuba is one of the most urbanized countries in Latin America, with over 75% of the population living in urban areas. The capital city, Havana, is the largest city in the country and serves as its economic, political, and cultural hub. Other major cities include Santiago de Cuba, Camagüey, and Holguín, all of which are centers of regional commerce, culture, and administration.

Cuba has a relatively low birth rate, and the country’s aging population poses challenges for the healthcare system, workforce, and pension programs. The Cuban government has made strides in providing universal healthcare and education, which have contributed to the country’s high life expectancy of around 78 years.

Languages

Spanish is the official language of Cuba and is spoken by the vast majority of the population. Cuban Spanish has its own distinct accents and expressions, influenced by the country’s history and cultural diversity. The use of “Cubanisms” and slang is common in informal settings, and regional dialects exist in different parts of the country, including Havana, Santiago de Cuba, and the eastern provinces.

In addition to Spanish, English is commonly spoken, particularly in tourist areas and among the business community. The level of English proficiency is increasing, especially among the younger generation, as English is taught in schools and universities. Other languages spoken in Cuba include Haitian Creole, due to the immigration of Haitian workers, and a small number of Chinese and Arabic speakers due to historical migration patterns.

Religion

Cuba is predominantly secular, with the majority of the population identifying as Roman Catholic. Catholicism was introduced to Cuba during the Spanish colonial period, and the Catholic Church continues to play an important role in the country’s cultural and social life, although religious practice has declined in recent years due to historical repression and the rise of secularism.

Protestantism is also present, particularly among evangelical and Pentecostal denominations, especially in the eastern provinces. The Protestant population has grown in recent decades, and churches and religious groups have become more active in Cuba, despite the country’s history of state control over religious organizations.

In addition to Christianity, Afro-Cuban religions such as Santería and Vodou play a significant role in the spiritual life of many Cubans, particularly those of African descent. These Afro-Caribbean religions combine elements of African traditional beliefs with Catholicism and are practiced in various forms throughout the island. Religious syncretism is common in Cuba, with many people identifying as both Catholic and practitioners of Santería.

Economy

Overview

Cuba has a mixed economy that is dominated by the state, with significant public sector involvement in most sectors of the economy. The country’s economy has been shaped by decades of central planning, particularly since the Cuban Revolution of 1959, which led to the nationalization of industries, including sugar, tobacco, and manufacturing. Despite this, the economy has faced significant challenges due to the long-standing U.S. embargo, economic mismanagement, and inefficiencies in the state-run system.

Since the early 1990s, Cuba has gradually introduced economic reforms aimed at opening up the private sector, attracting foreign investment, and modernizing key industries. While state-run enterprises still account for a large portion of the economy, the private sector has grown, especially in areas like tourism, small businesses, and agriculture.

Tourism is one of the most important sectors of the Cuban economy, contributing significantly to GDP and employment. The island’s beaches, cultural heritage, and historical sites attract millions of tourists each year, mainly from Europe, Canada, and Latin America. The Cuban government has made efforts to improve infrastructure and services to cater to international visitors, with a focus on sustainable tourism and eco-tourism.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

Agriculture plays a central role in the Cuban economy, with the country’s fertile soil and tropical climate allowing for the production of a wide variety of crops. Historically, Cuba’s economy was highly dependent on sugar, and the country was one of the largest exporters of sugar in the world. While sugar remains an important crop, its importance to the economy has declined in recent decades due to changes in global demand and competition from other producers.

Cuba also produces tobacco, which is world-renowned for its quality and is used in the production of the famous Cuban cigars. The country’s tobacco industry is highly regulated by the government, and Cuban cigars are a major export product. Coffee is another significant agricultural export, along with citrus fruits, rice, vegetables, and root crops such as yuca and sweet potatoes.

The country has rich natural resources, including nickel, petroleum, and cobalt. Cuba is one of the world’s largest producers of nickel, which is used in the production of batteries and steel. The mining industry is state-controlled, and while Cuba has reserves of other minerals, the sector remains underdeveloped compared to other countries in Latin America.

Industry and Services

Cuba’s industrial sector is diverse, with manufacturing activities ranging from food processing to pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and textiles. The government has been particularly focused on developing the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, which are seen as key to economic modernization. Cuba has made significant advances in medical research, and the country is recognized for its production of vaccines and medical treatments, particularly in the fields of cancer and diabetes.

The construction and energy sectors are also important to the economy. Cuba has been making efforts to improve its energy infrastructure and reduce its dependence on imported oil. Renewable energy sources, including wind and solar power, are being explored as part of the country’s long-term energy strategy.

The service sector is one of the largest contributors to GDP, with tourism, healthcare, and education being key industries. The Cuban government provides free healthcare and education, which are integral to the country’s social welfare system. The healthcare system, despite shortages of medical supplies, is recognized for its high standards, and Cuba has a strong medical tourism industry, particularly in fields such as plastic surgery and alternative medicine.

Government

Political System

Cuba is a one-party socialist republic with a centralized government, and the Cuban Communist Party (PCC) is the only political party allowed. The country is governed by the principles of Marxism-Leninism, which were established after the Cuban Revolution of 1959. The president of the Council of State serves as the head of state and government, while the National Assembly of People’s Power functions as the legislative body.

The president is elected by the National Assembly for a five-year term, with candidates chosen by the Communist Party. Cuba’s political system is characterized by a lack of political pluralism, and there is limited room for opposition parties or dissent. The Communist Party controls most aspects of political, economic, and social life, and the government is responsible for all key policy decisions.

Cuba has a unique system of popular representation, with municipal elections taking place every two and a half years, where citizens vote for delegates to local councils. These councils elect delegates to the National Assembly, and the Assembly in turn elects the members of the Council of State. However, the Communist Party retains a central role in all levels of government.

Legal System

Cuba’s legal system is based on civil law, with a heavy influence from Soviet-style socialist law. The judiciary is subordinate to the Communist Party, and courts operate according to party directives and government policies. The country’s legal system emphasizes the protection of social order and national security over individual rights and freedoms.

Cuba has a dual system of courts, including civil, criminal, and administrative courts, and the country’s legal framework ensures the state’s control over political and ideological matters. The legal system has faced criticism for its lack of independence, transparency, and access to justice, particularly in cases involving political dissent or opposition.

Foreign Relations

Cuba has historically been a leader in promoting solidarity with other socialist and developing countries, particularly in Latin America, Africa, and Asia. The country has maintained close ties with socialist states, most notably the former Soviet Union, and it has supported revolutionary movements in other parts of the world.

In recent years, Cuba has worked to improve its relations with the international community, particularly after the thawing of relations with the United States in the early 2010s. While U.S.-Cuban relations have experienced setbacks, particularly with the re-imposition of U.S. sanctions, Cuba continues to engage diplomatically with Latin American countries and is a member of the United Nations, the Non-Aligned Movement, and the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC).

Cuba’s foreign policy is focused on maintaining sovereignty, supporting anti-imperialist movements, and promoting international solidarity. The country has continued to support healthcare and educational initiatives in Africa and Latin America, sending doctors and educators abroad as part of its soft power strategy.

Culture

Arts and Music

Cuban culture is a vibrant mix of African, Spanish, and indigenous influences, which has shaped the country’s music, dance, visual arts, and literature. Music is at the heart of Cuban culture, with genres such as son, salsa, bolero, and rumba gaining international recognition. These musical forms have African rhythms blended with Spanish melodies, creating a distinctive sound that has influenced global music genres.

The Cuban National Ballet and Cuban Institute of Cinematographic Art are recognized worldwide, and Cuban visual artists, such as Wifredo Lam and Roberto Fabelo, have achieved international acclaim for their innovative works. The arts in Cuba are heavily supported by the government, and the country has a vibrant cultural scene, particularly in Havana, which hosts numerous art exhibitions, theater performances, and music festivals.

Cuisine

Cuban cuisine is a fusion of Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences. The diet is heavily based on rice, beans, pork, and plantains, with dishes like arroz con frijoles (rice and beans), lechón asado (roast pork), and tostones (fried plantains) being staple foods. The use of spices, particularly garlic, cumin, and oregano, gives Cuban dishes their distinctive flavor.

Seafood is also common along the coast, with dishes like mojo (a marinade made with garlic, citrus, and olive oil) being used to flavor fish and shellfish. Cuban sandwiches, made with roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, and pickles, are another popular food, particularly in urban areas.

Festivals and Traditions

Cuba is known for its colorful festivals, which celebrate the country’s rich cultural heritage and history. The Havana International Jazz Festival and the Cuban Film Festival are among the most prominent cultural events, attracting international attention. Carnival, held annually in Santiago de Cuba, is one of the largest festivals in the country, featuring vibrant parades, dancing, and music that celebrate Afro-Cuban traditions.

Other traditional festivals include Feria del Libro, the Havana Book Fair, and Dia de San Lázaro, a religious festival honoring the patron saint of the sick. Cuban festivals are a reflection of the country’s strong cultural identity, blending African, Spanish, and indigenous traditions. These events often involve music, dance, food, and religious rituals that bring together local communities and visitors alike.

Religion

Religion in Cuba is a mix of Roman Catholicism, Protestantism, and Afro-Cuban religions. While Catholicism is the dominant religion, Cuban religious life is often marked by a blending of Catholicism with African traditions, particularly in the practice of Santería, which combines Yoruba religious beliefs with Catholic saints.

Protestantism, particularly Evangelical Christianity, has also seen growth in recent years, especially in the eastern regions of the country. Religious practice was restricted during the early years of the Cuban Revolution, but since the 1990s, there has been a growing openness towards religious expression. Santería and other Afro-Cuban faiths remain an integral part of Cuban culture and spirituality, especially among the Afro-Cuban population.

Religion plays an important role in family life, public celebrations, and the country’s cultural identity, even in a relatively secular society.

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