Cuban customs seize 'químico' drug hidden in food packages at Havana airport

Cuban customs intercepted synthetic cannabinoids, popularly known as 'químico,' at Havana's international airport. State media reported the drugs were concealed within two food packages originating from the United States. The seizure resulted from a collaborative effort between Cuban Customs and the anti-drug agency, according to William Pérez, first deputy chief of Customs. He stated the operation is part of the country's border control actions against illicit drug trafficking, adhering to a "zero tolerance" policy.

This incident follows another drug bust at the same airport earlier in the week. Cuban customs agents discovered over 10 kilograms of liquid cocaine disguised in shampoo bottles and other hair care products. Pérez noted that this detection demonstrated a clear intent to bypass controls by using goods that fall under current tariff exemptions.

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the drug known as 'químico' was hidden in two boxes of food from the United States and was intercepted as a result of the joint work of Cuban Customs and the anti-drug body

Cuban authorities maintain that the island is neither a producer nor a transit country for illicit drugs. Official reports from 2025 indicate that 507 kilograms of drugs, primarily cocaine, were seized, leading to the arrest of 174 individuals involved in drug trafficking.

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is clear evidence of the intention to violate controls in order to introduce illicit substances, again using those goods contemplated in current tariff exemptions