The International New York Times had an article on 20-21 December, 'Companies line up to enter Cuba', that shares some of the concerns raised here.
"PepsiCo wants in. So do Caterpillar and Marriott International.
. . . But while there may be robust opportunities for some companies, especially those selling products or goods that could be viewed as enhancing Cuba's own domestic production or helping to develop its underused resources, other companies could get the cold shoulder.
"Under the changes in banking and trade [announced by the US government prior to Christmas], American companies like Home Depot, Caterpillar and [John] Deere can expect to be welcomed with open arms by the Cuban government, because they would be viewed as providing items or goods or services that support Cuba's domestic sector.
"A much bigger question mark hangs over companies geared towards selling consumer goods - whether Frito-Lay corn chips or Apple iPads - to Cubans, most of whom have very limited disposable income.
"American hospitality and hotel companies, shut out for decades, are quickly assessing the opportunities in Cuba as well . . .
""We will take our cues from the US government but look forward to opening hotels in Cuba, as companies from other countries have done already", Arne M. Sorenson, president and chief executive of Marriott International, said by email."
