[Cuban Central Bank Authorizes Ten Companies to Use Cryptocurrency for Cross-Border Payments for the First Time] According to Cubadebate, the Cuban Central Bank has authorized ten domestic companies to use cryptocurrency for foreign payments for the first time, including nine small and medium-sized private enterprises and one joint venture. The authorization was announced in the official gazette on March 23, with the license valid for one year and renewable upon application. Approved companies are only allowed to conduct cross-border payments related to their core business through virtual asset service providers licensed by the central bank and must report transaction details to the central bank on a quarterly basis. The authorized companies span sectors such as information technology, software development, catering, transportation, and light industry. This marks a significant step in Cuba's efforts to promote the digital transformation of its financial system since recognizing the legal status of cryptocurrency in 2021.