Electronics rules eased

Communist Cuba has authorized the unrestricted sale of computers and video players in the first sign that President Raul Castro is moving to improve access to consumer goods.

An internal government memo says the appliances can go on sale immediately, although air conditioners will not be available until next year and toasters until 2010 because of limited power supplies.

Only foreigners and companies have been able to buy computers in Cuba before now, and DVD players were seized at the airport until customs rules were eased last year.

The memo says, “Based on the improved availability of electricity, the government at the highest level has approved the sale of some equipment which was prohibited.”

It also lists electric bicycles and microwave ovens.