In a move stirring controversy, the Cuban government has inaugurated a new store in Havana that exclusively operates in dollars, focusing on the sale of hygiene and perfume products. This establishment, managed by the mixed enterprise MCM Camacho S.A., is strategically located on the San Rafael Boulevard, a site formerly home to the Giralt appliance store and, more recently, a second-hand clothing outlet.
Virgilio Arencibia Villa, the company's treasurer, detailed that the store initially offers perfume products, with plans to expand into a full market area when feasible. "Transactions are conducted via USD cards, both international and those provided by CADECAS in Cuba," he explained.
Arencibia further elaborated that MCM Camacho results from a partnership between the Cuban entity Albus and the Spanish counterpart Camacho, a well-established supplier in Cuba. In future developments, they aim to incorporate wholesale trade. "Supply stability is ensured. Camacho handles national production, while also importing high-quality goods from Spain," he emphasized.
The televised report, shared on Facebook by Cubadebate, has drawn widespread criticism from Cubans who are dismayed at this new addition to the government's dollarization strategy. "Will salaries be paid in USD? Otherwise, these stores aren't accessible to the general public," an engineer questioned.
"Must we now endure the humiliation of being told we need dollars for basic necessities? What a disgrace!" a young man protested.
"Another step towards 'sovereignty and independence'! The audacity of this government is boundless!" declared an emigrant.
A young woman raised a poignant question: "If the aim is to attract foreign currency, why not use banks and exchange offices and implement all domestic trade in our 'sovereign' national currency? This should include hotel services for both foreigners and nationals, all in national currency. Some stores operate in MLC, others in USD cash, and some are empty but priced in CUP. It makes little sense."
A resident of Havana commented, "Attracting foreign currency isn't inherently wrong, but doing so by exploiting basic human needs is. This is supposedly a nation that promotes social balance to the world. If foreign currency can't be generated otherwise, it's not our fault that leadership fails."
Public Reactions to Dollar-Only Stores in Cuba
Why are Cubans upset about the new dollar-only store?
Many Cubans are frustrated because the store operates exclusively in USD, which is not the currency in which they are paid. This limits access to essential goods for the general population.
What is the purpose of the Cuban government's dollarization strategy?
The government aims to attract foreign currency to stabilize the economy. However, this approach has been criticized for prioritizing economic gains over social equity.