Decree-Law 135/2026
Cuban oil and gas law introducing petroleum concessions.
Since 19 October 2026, Decree-Law 135/2026 has allowed Cuba to grant petroleum concessions for up to 30 years, with a possible ten-year extension.
Last refreshed: 22 October 2026
Will Cuba's first petroleum concession attract a bidder?
Timeline for Decree-Law 135/2026
Introduced petroleum concessions of up to 30 years
Cuba Dispatch: Cuba offers oil fields on 30-year termsBackground
Decree-Law 135/2026 is Cuba's principal statute for oil and gas activities. It keeps petroleum deposits in state ownership while establishing concessions as a route for approved operators to explore and exploit them. The Council of Ministers grants those rights. An initial grant may last 30 years, and the law allows up to ten more on extension.
Decree 184/2026 supplies the operating detail. It sets rules for applicants, tenders, royalties, insurance and field work under the parent statute. Together, the instruments separate the legal authority to grant a concession from the procedures used to obtain and operate one. The law also opens an application route for specified Cuban private firms and non-agricultural cooperatives, subject to state endorsement and cabinet approval.
The law creates long oil concessions
Decree-Law 135/2026 took effect on 19 October 2026 and added petroleum concessions to Cuba's oil and gas framework. A concession can run for up to 30 years and receive an extension of up to ten more, while the underlying deposits remain state property.
Under the framework published on 12 October 2026, the Council of Ministers grants concessions after state review. Eligible Cuban private firms and non-agricultural cooperatives can apply alongside other investors. For Decree-Law 135/2026, this creates the legal basis for long-term private participation without transferring ownership of Cuba's petroleum resources.
What is Cuba's Decree-Law 135/2026?
How long can a Cuban petroleum concession last?
Who grants petroleum concessions under Decree-Law 135?
When did Decree-Law 135/2026 take effect?
Written with AI from Lowdown's published reporting. Not individually reviewed by an editor. Updated 22 October 2026. Editorial standards.