Agrarian Policy Changes and the Evolution of Land Tenure in Cuba

Abstract

The agrarian policy changes introduced in Cuba since 2007 have resulted in notable changes in land tenure. This has contributed to a shift to annual crops, substantial reductions in idle land and the partial (but still insufficient) recovery of non-sugar agricultural output and yields. Despite these limited advances, the long-term growth and development of Cuban agriculture requires more profound structural reforms. The experiences of China and Vietnam suggest that the (further) expansion of land tenure and property rights should be a logical first step to achieve this goal.