The food crisis in Cuba has reached alarming levels, with the population facing a growing shortage of basic products and no solutions offered by the regime. Linorka Montenegro, a 55-year-old Cuban, admitted to the AFP news agency that "the truth" is that "this is bad." "My fridge is empty, there's nothing," confesses the woman, whose comment reflects the widespread sentiment on the island. Besides inflation and shortages, subsidized food, which has been a relief for Cuban families for decades, is also lacking.
This week, it was revealed that the shortages of government-regulated products will continue through September. Cubans will not receive coffee or oil, there are distribution gaps in sugar, and other rations will not be fully met for another consecutive month. Betsy Díaz Velázquez, the Minister of Internal Trade, explained that in Cuba, "we do not have coffee or oil planned for September, as there was none in August either."
Essential Goods in Short Supply
Unable to guarantee basic necessities, the regime has even altered the weight of bread. Currently, rationed bread has decreased from 80 to 60 grams, and Cubans are forced to stand in long lines to receive a portion that barely meets their needs. The situation is exacerbated by reports that ships loaded with wheat, rice, and other foods remain anchored in ports due to lack of funds to pay for the goods.
"I am entitled to seven loaves of bread a day, one for each family member. My grandchildren practically eat them all," explained Rosalía Terrero, a worker at a store in Central Havana. She points out another element the Cuban regime tries to downplay: public discontent. "Cubans stay angry from the moment they wake up until they go to bed," said Terrero.
The Ministry of Food Industry admitted that only 600 tons of wheat have been acquired for September, far below the 3,000 tons needed monthly. Cuba is experiencing its worst economic crisis since the 1990s, characterized not only by food shortages but also by a lack of medicines, fuel, and a constant rise in inflation.
Vicente de la O Levi, the Minister of Energy, noted that a ship carrying 20,000 tons is enough for a week. Two or three ships are needed weekly to supply diesel, gasoline, liquefied gas, fuel oil, and jet fuel to keep the country running and reduce power outages, which currently last up to 12 hours daily in several localities.
Understanding Cuba's Food Crisis
In this section, we address some common questions about the ongoing food crisis in Cuba, providing insights into its causes and effects.
Why is there a food shortage in Cuba?
The food shortage in Cuba is primarily due to economic mismanagement, lack of funding for imports, and the inefficiencies of the socialist communist regime.
What basic products are currently scarce in Cuba?
Currently, essential products like coffee, oil, sugar, and bread are scarce in Cuba. Additionally, there is a shortage of wheat, rice, and other staple foods.
How is the Cuban government addressing the food crisis?
The Cuban government has not provided effective solutions to the food crisis. They have admitted to continued shortages and have even reduced the weight of rationed bread.
What impact does the food crisis have on the Cuban population?
The food crisis has led to widespread public discontent, long lines for basic necessities, and inadequate nutrition for many families, contributing to the overall economic hardship.