During a significant visit to the Moskvich plant on May 8, 2025, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin and Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel announced plans to establish a new taxi fleet in Havana using Moskvich vehicles. This initiative marks a notable step in strengthening the ties between Russia and Cuba, which have been historically rooted in friendship and strategic partnership.
As part of this collaboration, a total of 50 cars are set to be delivered to Cuba, consisting of 25 traditional gasoline-powered Moskvich-3 models and 25 electric Moskvich-3e vehicles. Sobyanin conveyed that Cuban specialists will receive training in Moscow, with ongoing support provided remotely. "We are striving to develop cultural, social, and economic ties with Havana. One example of such cooperation is the creation of a new taxi fleet based on our Moskvich cars," Sobyanin stated, expressing optimism that these vehicles would enhance transportation in the vibrant city of Havana.
The newly formed taxi service is expected to serve a diverse clientele, including approximately 2.2 million residents of Havana, over 150,000 Russian tourists, and numerous international visitors who frequent Cuba. The taxi fleet will be integrated into the existing transportation network of Havana and the resort city of Varadero, ensuring that both locals and tourists benefit from the service.
At the meeting, Sobyanin presented President Diaz-Canel with a certificate for 10 Moskvich-6 cars, further solidifying the partnership. The mayor emphasized that the maintenance of these vehicles would be handled by a joint company formed by Russian and Cuban specialists, ensuring a robust support system for the new fleet.
In addition to the taxis, Sobyanin highlighted that Moscow would also assist Cuba by providing solar power plants and training local technicians to manage the new electric vehicles. This commitment reflects a broader strategy to enhance Cuba's infrastructure and sustainability efforts.
Diaz-Canel expressed his gratitude to Sobyanin and the Moskvich factory workers, praising the high quality of Soviet-era Moskvich cars. He remarked, "The appearance of new models of this brand on the roads of Cuba will strengthen modern relations between our two countries," underscoring the significance of this collaboration.
The visit came at a time of heightened importance, as it coincides with the upcoming celebrations of the 65th anniversary of the restoration of diplomatic relations between Russia and Cuba, as well as the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War. These events serve as a backdrop to the ongoing dialogue and cooperation between the two nations.
Historically, the bilateral relations between Moscow and Havana have been characterized by mutual support and strategic partnerships. According to a protocol established in 1997, trade turnover between the two countries reached $101.2 million in 2024. Russia exports heavy engineering products, electrical equipment, printing materials, ferrous metals, and transport equipment to Cuba, while Cuba imports coffee, tea, spices, medicines, and various household products from Russia.
In recent years, both nations have sought to deepen their economic and cultural ties. Notably, in November 2022, Havana hosted "Moscow Days," which featured cultural events and business meetings aimed at fostering closer cooperation. Additionally, a monument to Fidel Castro was unveiled in Moscow on November 22, 2022, symbolizing the enduring friendship between the two countries.
As the world continues to evolve, Moscow remains focused on nurturing domestic investments. In October 2024, Sobyanin noted that Moscow prefers domestic investors, highlighting concerns over foreign companies extracting more resources from Russia than they invest. This sentiment is echoed in the context of the Moskvich brand, which has undergone a transformation since the former Renault plant in Moscow was repurposed for local production. Sobyanin announced in May 2022 that cars under the Moskvich brand would be produced at this site, with plans for future electric vehicle development.
The Moskvich brand, which was once a symbol of Soviet automotive engineering, is making a comeback as part of Russia's efforts to revitalize its manufacturing capabilities. The renaming of the Renault plant on June 3, 2022, to the Moskvich plant signifies a new chapter in the country's automotive industry.
As this new partnership unfolds, the impact of Moskvich cars on the streets of Havana will not only enhance local transportation options but also serve as a visible reminder of the historical ties between Russia and Cuba. The collaboration signifies a mutual commitment to growth, sustainability, and the strengthening of international relationships.
In conclusion, the launch of the Moskvich taxi fleet in Havana represents a significant milestone in the ongoing partnership between Russia and Cuba, with potential benefits for both nations. As they navigate the complexities of modern geopolitics, this collaboration could pave the way for further initiatives aimed at fostering economic growth and cultural exchange.
