85 routers intercepted at Havana airport: what does the law say about the importation of such equipment into Cuba?

The General Customs of the Republic of Cuba continues to inform about the increase in border control activities and seizure incidents at Cuban airports. 

Recently, Wiliam Pérez González, First Deputy Head of the Cuban Customs, announced that the detection was made. illegal entry of 85 router equipment through Havana airport, in violation of "the current regulations and standards". 

Likewise, he specified that the number of devices detected on the same person revealed other illegal activities, based on which Customs decided to apply the measures provided for in these cases, although they were not specified. 

The Cuba Customs reiterated that the importation of routersIt must be carried out in accordance with the regulations established for such purposes by the Ministry of Communications.

Taking routers to Cuba: is it prohibited?

If you didn't know, Devices such as routers, switches, and similar data network devices require authorization from MINCOMas well as radio transmitters and receivers of any kind and services, fixed, mobile, and personal stations (walkie-talkies and satellite phones), their devices, and power amplifiers.

Specifically, the RESOLUTION No. 272/2015 of MINCOM It is the one that regulates the entry of these devices into Cuba. 

The regulation states: "Natural or legal persons require an explicit entry authorization to the country issued by the General Directorate of Communications of the Ministry of Communications, which does not constitute the installation or operation license or permit, when they are interested in importing these telecommunications equipment, parts, and implements for non-commercial purposes."

Comments on the new seizure case by the Cuban Customs

Several users commented on the Cuba Customs publication on the detection of illegal routersJ. Quiala opined: "As they criticize the Cuban customs, however when they leave Cuba there are customs that won't let you pass even a bottle of rum. So, what's the criticism?" 

However, not a few Cubans criticize this kind of acts. They should be ashamed of confiscating these necessary items, said L. Rodríguez. In the same vein, another person commented:Those are routers used for nauta Hogar. Someone who invested their money to buy them and solve the population problem since they cannot. 

And what do you think about this topic? Have you had experience importing routers to Cuba? Let us know in the comments.