This morning the Obama administration announced it would be loosening restrictions for Americans to travel to Cuba and it also allowed for business transactions for the two countries.
The changes which take effect on Wednesday, March 16th means Americans will now be able to legally buy Cuban-made cigars and liquor while in Europe
Despite conflicting reports Americans will not be able to bring them back to the US from nations other than Cuba where Americans are limited to purchases up to $100.
The new ruling states:
Dealings in merchandise subject to section 515.204, including Cuban-origin goods, for personal use. OFAC is adding section 515.585(c) to authorize individuals who are persons subject to U.S. jurisdiction and who are located in a third country to engage in the purchase or acquisition of merchandise subject to the prohibitions in section 515.204, including Cuban-origin goods, for personal consumption while in a third country, and to receive or obtain services from Cuba or a Cuban national that are ordinarily incident to travel and maintenance within a third country. This provision does not authorize the importation of such merchandise into the United States, including as accompanied baggage. OFAC is making a conforming change to section 515.410.
Since December 2014, the US has begun the process of normalizing relations with the island nation.
