FCC International Bureau Removes Cuba from the Exclusion List

The International Bureau of the Federal Communications Commission removed Cuba from the FCC’s Exclusion List for International Section 214 Authorizations, also known as the Exclusion List. The Exclusion List identifies countries and facilities that are not covered by grant of a global facilities-based Section 214 application and require a separate international Section 214.

By removing Cuba from the Exclusion list, the Commission opens the door for US telecommunication carriers to provide facilities-based telephone and Internet service to Cuba without separate approval from the Commission. Cuba was the last remaining country on the Commission’s Exclusion List. The Order becomes effective upon release. Removing Cuba from the Exclusion List benefits the public interest as it will likely alleviate administrative and cost burdens on both the applicant and the Commission, and will promote competition on the US-Cuba route.