The road from a command and control economy to a free enterprise system is littered with potholes, boulders and other dangerous obstacles. While Russia’s and China’s moves towards capitalism have created a middle and a wealthy class of citizens, such economic changes have not coincided with democratic reforms. On the other hand, political change takes time. As citizens see that self-determination can create higher standards of living through private enterprise, they also see its importance politically. Which brings us to Cuba. For 50 years, the US has isolated that country, blocking its attempts to participate in the world economy. Though President Obama initiated some reforms to loosen the isolation, we can and should do more to help Cubans raise their standard of living and participate in free markets.

Image Source: Heriberto Lopez Alberola



Most Americans are unaware that Cuba recently began to allow private ownership of small businesses. Since that move about a year ago, all kinds of entrepreneurs have jumped into the private economy. People have opened small restaurants, retail shops, construction businesses and much more. As we know in our own country: if you give people a chance to determine their destinies, they will accomplish a great deal. There is much that the US can do to nurture private enterprise in Cuba.



First, we can engage in more exchange with that country. This would come in the form of tourism, professional guidance and remittances to non-family members. Cuban entrepreneurs would benefit from US dollars, which is hard currency that allows them to expand their operations. Tourists and visitors to that country will benefit as much as they contribute. During Cuba’s 50 years of isolation from the US, we have developed a mindset about that country that is based on ignorance and our own propaganda. Our citizens deserve the opportunity to make their own judgments.

Image Source: Heriberto Lopez Alberola



Another important step would be to allow our financial institutions to process transactions with Cuba. Without access to a North American financial system, growth of small business in Cuba will be stunted. All other initiatives for supporting Cuban private enterprise will fall flat if we continue to isolate their financial institutions.



Cuba is a short boat ride from our shores, yet its culture is foreign to most Americans. It is a disservice to our citizens and to our hemisphere that we are not supporting their moves towards free enterprise. Now is the time to change our approach.

Image Source: Heriberto Lopez Alberola



H.L. Alberola runs a corporate social responsibility consultancy with offices in Miami and other major cities. His expertise in Latino affairs and Cuba American issues provide him with an informed perspective on the country’s direction for supporting Cuba. Learn more in this Twitter page.