Recent promotional content from the state-run portal Cubadebate, featuring a Colombian oil and a premium Cuban rum, has sparked a wave of criticism from readers. Many have voiced their discontent, highlighting the absurdity of marketing products that remain out of reach for the average Cuban citizen.
The backlash intensified after Cubadebate allocated space to promote two products seen as unattainable by most Cubans: El Tesoro Oil, introduced by Morano Gruppo, and the Havana Club Icónica Don Navarro Rum. These were showcased at the recently concluded Havana International Fair (Fihav) 2025, which took place from October 24 to 29.
Public response was swift and direct. Readers accused the media outlet of acting as a commercial showcase detached from the pressing issues of scarcity, deteriorating public services, and the spread of diseases within the country.
Comments on the promotional posts highlighted the growing frustration. Some readers sarcastically suggested celebrating with a bottle once "Nicolás Maduro falls," while others pointed out that the rum Cubans receive in ration stores is of poor quality, far removed from the award-winning rums intended for export.
Critics also emphasized that the profits from these sales never benefit the general population, noting that even Cuban-made rum has become unaffordable for everyday citizens.
The Colombian oil faced similar scrutiny. Readers questioned the lack of transparency regarding its price, pointing out that the so-called "Cuban market" is actually a foreign currency enterprise circuit. They criticized Cubadebate for promoting products while claiming to support a socialist model that allegedly offers a different distribution system.
Skepticism was widespread. Many stated they had never seen the product in stores, while others complained of oil shortages in ration stores for months. Several noted that official propaganda paints a picture of the country that doesn't match the daily hardships faced by Cubans.
The volume and tone of these criticisms reveal the erosion of a media outlet that, instead of addressing the ongoing crisis faced by the populace, promotes luxury or imported goods beyond the reach of the majority.
For many, Cubadebate has confirmed that it exists in a parallel universe, disconnected from the realities on the ground.
Within the context of Fihav 2025, BioCubaCafé S.A. introduced its new premium coffee, "Guantánamo 155," commemorating the city. However, this product is also destined for exclusive markets, far removed from the realities of Guantanamo residents who struggle to obtain even subsidized coffee.
The introduction of luxury brands like Don Robusto and Raíces further fueled indignation among Cubans, highlighting the stark contrast between official opulence and the grim reality of empty ration stores.
Most Cubans on the island are overwhelmed by ongoing food distribution issues, including delays in the delivery of staples like rice, sugar, and oil, as well as the poor quality of available food. The situation is exacerbated by corruption within the distribution system and inadequate storage conditions.
In some instances, products arrive in such poor condition that they are unsuitable for consumption.
Moreover, the government's push towards dollarization in commerce has deepened social inequality. The majority of Cubans lack access to dollars, preventing them from purchasing basic goods at international prices in stores that only accept convertible currency.
Meanwhile, markets dealing in Cuban pesos suffer severe shortages, impacting the quality of life and causing widespread social discontent.
FAQs on Cuban Market Challenges and Criticism of Cubadebate
Why did Cubadebate face criticism for promoting Colombian oil and Cuban rum?
Cubadebate was criticized for promoting products that are largely inaccessible to the average Cuban, highlighting the disconnect between the media outlet and the daily struggles faced by the population.
What are the main issues affecting food distribution in Cuba?
Food distribution in Cuba is plagued by delays in delivering basic staples, poor food quality, corruption in the distribution system, and inadequate storage conditions.
How has dollarization impacted Cuban society?
The dollarization of commerce has increased social inequality, as most Cubans lack access to dollars, making it difficult for them to purchase goods in stores that only accept convertible currency.