Known on TikTok as Rachuqbolá, a young woman recently documented her visit to Cuba, highlighting her experience shopping at a store that exclusively accepts foreign currencies. Thanks to her Mexican bank cards, she was able to make purchases as the system automatically converts the currency. In a brief video, she remarked, “I spent a Cuban's month’s salary on trivial items that wouldn’t last a week.” She demonstrated a small purchase totaling just over $23, questioning how one could survive on such a small amount for an entire month.
Rachuqbolá expressed her shock at the high prices, noting that while the expenditure might seem typical for someone living abroad, it is unsustainable for Cubans earning between $12 and $20 monthly. Her video sparked numerous reactions, with some users criticizing the Cuban people's passive stance towards the regime, while others were curious about the payment process in dollar stores. One user inquired if she paid in USD using her Mexican cards, to which she confirmed that all foreign cards are accepted except those issued in Cuban currency.
In response to a user who calculated that her $23 purchase was approximately equivalent to 460 Mexican pesos, Rachuqbolá mentioned her ticket to Cuba ranged from 7,000 to 20,000 pesos, depending on the flight and season. Messages of empathy also poured in, with one commenter hoping for a change in Cuba's situation, while others were struck by the economic hardships: "There's no comparison; Cubans in Cuba endure a non-functional system," one user noted.
Rachuqbolá's post joins a growing number of viral TikTok videos where Cubans reveal what they can buy with their earnings. On March 30, TikToker @el.profesor.cubano, who resides in Spain, explained that a Cuban salary barely covers wet wipes, sausages, burgers, and possibly soap if available. Another case featured @brianna4258, a young woman from Matanzas, who showcased her purchases with a retiree's minimum pension: rice, beans, three eggs, and ground beef. Official statistics indicate nearly 40% of Cuban retirees receive the minimum pension of 1,528 CUP monthly, equivalent to about $4.
Similarly, creator @itss_henryyy_ revealed in a recent video that his minimum wage of 2,100 CUP wasn't enough to buy even two pizzas alongside basic items like oil and seasoning, requiring him to add money out of pocket to complete the purchase. These accounts highlight the increasingly challenging reality for thousands of Cubans who, amidst shortages and dollar-based pricing, struggle to meet basic needs.
Understanding the Economic Challenges in Cuba
How do foreign visitors pay in Cuban stores?
Foreign visitors can use their international bank cards to pay in Cuban stores that accept foreign currency. The system automatically converts the currency for transactions.
What is the average monthly salary in Cuba?
The average monthly salary in Cuba ranges between $12 and $20, which makes it difficult for locals to afford basic necessities, especially with dollar-based pricing.
What impact do high prices have on Cubans?
High prices, especially in dollar-equivalent stores, place a significant burden on Cubans, forcing them to struggle to meet basic needs due to their low salaries.