Spanish hotel chain Melia exits Cuba over economic and geopolitical strains
Spanish hotel chain Melia has announced its immediate exit from managing 15 hotels in Cuba due to worsening economic and geopolitical conditions. This decision follows increased pressure from the U.S. government under President Trump's administration, which has implemented tighter sanctions against Cuba. Melia, a significant player in Cuba's tourism sector since 1990, cited unforeseen circumstances that have impacted the viability of its operations on the island.
- ▪Melia will stop managing, marketing, and providing brand services for 15 hotels in Cuba.
- ▪The decision is influenced by the U.S. government's increased pressure on Cuba through sanctions.
- ▪Cuba has been facing power shortages and declining tourism demand, affecting Melia's financial contributions.
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Spanish hotel chain Melia exits Cuba over economic and geopolitical strainsSign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inboxSpanish hotel group Melia's exit comes as US President Donald Trump's administration steps up pressure on Cuba.PHOTO: REUTERSPublished Jun 03, 2026, 04:55 PMUpdated Jun 03, 2026, 05:18 PMListenMADRID – Spanish hotel group Melia said on June 3 that it would immediately stop managing, marketing and providing brand services for 15 hotels in Cuba, pointing to the island’s worsening geopolitical, legal and economic conditions.The move comes as US President Donald Trump’s administration steps up pressure on Cuba, using an oil blockade and tighter sanctions in an effort to cut off resources and force a change in its government.Melia, one of the largest foreign hotel…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Straits Times — World.