The United States and Cuba: Implications of an Economic Relationship

Woodrow Wilson Center Latin American Program
August 19, 2010

In light of recent speculation about the Obama administration’s expanded travel policy to Cuba, this report highlights the potential effects of proposed changes in policy toward the island. This bulletin contains the proceedings of a conference held at the Woodrow  Wilson International Center for Scholars on May 24, 2010. The event brought together business and academic leaders to discuss the status and future of U.S. - Cuba economic links, including trade, tourism, energy, and the status of the embargo. Set largely in the context of H.R. 4645, The Travel Restriction Reform and Export Enhancement Act, the report presents an analysis of the potential impacts of engagement, as well as specific insight on legal and labor issues at stake in the relationship. Supporters of trade and travel restrictions explained the complexities and subtleties in resolving property claims and expropriations, a matter required under federal law and arguably the basis for the embargo. Opponents to the economic restrictions highlighted the importance of supporting U.S. companies compete abroad, especially during these times of economic crisis, while pointing at the legal inconsistency of prohibiting Americans from traveling freely to Cuba.

"When the debate strays from this central issue of rights, we lose sight of the real issues facing Cuba and Cuban citizens today," states AS/COA's Christopher Sabatini in the report, "For this reason, any and all changes to the U.S. embargo must first and foremost be geared toward strengthening the hand of the island’s independent sectors."

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The United States and Cuba: Implications of an Economic Relationship
 
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