The unchecked surge in prices across Cuba is reaching staggering new heights, with a pack of cigarettes now costing as much as 500 pesos in certain provinces. This situation underscores the deepening economic crisis and the failure of government measures to curb inflation. A Facebook page named "Ma Chete" sparked widespread discussion by expressing shock over the soaring cost of cigarettes, becoming a platform for others to share their views on the matter.
The profile commented, "Cuba was once about 'coffee, tobacco, and rum.' They get upset when we label them a failed state." Echoing this sentiment, Nora Alibech García Villalón noted that in Boyeros, Havana, the price for a pack is indeed 500 pesos. Mónica Pérez agreed, stating, "500 pesos here in 'Nuevo Vedado City,' and there are none available."
Another user, Nallivis Gesteira Oms, confirmed that in Havana, a cigarette pack is priced at 500 pesos, with individual cigarettes costing 50 pesos. Magda González Hernández remarked, "Imagine me, smoking like a chimney, and here in Matanzas, it's 350$ to 380$. It's incredible, especially since tobacco, rum, and coffee are part of our identity."
Loraine Borroto reported that in Santa Clara, the price for a single cigarette varies between 30 to 50 pesos depending on the brand. Alain de Jesús García Viamontes criticized the situation, saying, "Whenever a party official is placed in a productive sector, they're not satisfied until they ruin it. This is a perfect example. Murillo destroyed the economy, and now leading Tabacuba, a cigarette pack is 400 to 500 pesos. We keep moving forward. The funniest part is they blame the blockade."
María Morales Reynoso noted, "Cigarettes cost more than a pound of chicken," highlighting another scarce product in Cuban households. Jacqueline Pérez Dueñas added, "I can imagine. The pack I smoke is 450 to 500, and Canel still insists we march on the 20th. He can go to hell."
Government Response and Economic Context
Despite the public outcry, during a recent work visit to Holguín province, Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel pointed fingers at the small private sector for the price hikes, labeling some prices as "abusive" and "torturous."
These statements come amid a worsening economic crisis marked by inflation and a lack of basic goods, leaving citizens to navigate an increasingly dire situation. Pork, another fundamental yet elusive product, remains a financial burden for many, particularly retirees and the most vulnerable segments of society.
Dulce Véliz Dagnery, a pensioner from Santiago de Cuba, voiced her frustration to Granma, lamenting that "pork rinds are a thing of the past."
Understanding Cuba's Economic Dilemma
Why have cigarette prices in Cuba reached 500 pesos?
Cigarette prices have surged due to economic mismanagement, inflation, and the government's failure to implement effective measures against these issues.
What is the government's stance on rising prices?
The Cuban government, led by Miguel Díaz-Canel, blames the small private sector for the price increases, calling some of these prices "abusive" and "torturous."
How are citizens coping with the economic crisis in Cuba?
Citizens are struggling with rising costs and scarcity of basic goods, with many expressing frustration over the government's inability to remedy the situation.