The Cuban Ministry of Domestic Trade (MINCIN) recently disclosed updated retail prices for cement. This announcement has sparked a wave of satire and criticism from citizens who took to social media to question where the elusive product can actually be found, noting its near absence from the market over the past year.
According to the state-run outlet Cubadebate, the revised pricing is outlined in MINCIN's Resolution 23, following an earlier wholesale price adjustment detailed in Resolution 31 by the Ministry of Finance and Prices (MFP). The directive sets retail prices for various types of cement available in the nation.
Despite this official announcement on Facebook, numerous users responded with sarcasm, doubting the relevance of setting prices for a product seemingly unavailable to the public. "Where can cement actually be found?" was a prevalent question among commenters.
Marpessa O. Portal de Villiers, General Director of Merchandise Sales at MINCIN, acknowledged the existence of over 300 outlets across Cuba dedicated to selling building materials, including cement. However, she admitted that cement sales have been virtually nonexistent in the past year due to the industry's challenging production conditions.
"The revision of retail prices stems from the adjustments in wholesale costs, reflecting increased raw material expenses and the aging technology in cement production plants," Portal de Villiers elaborated.
Regarding availability, the director disclosed plans to allocate approximately 3,000 tons of cement starting in December, primarily to western provinces and eastern regions affected by recent weather events.
The distribution of this supply will be managed by local governments, who will prioritize allocations based on availability. Key recipients include individuals with approved construction subsidies and those impacted by natural disasters.
Nevertheless, Portal de Villiers conceded that the anticipated supply would not meet existing demand, although she noted that it would facilitate progress in certain construction projects. She also clarified that the price update would not affect those with pre-approved subsidies.
Resolution 23 can be accessed on the MINCIN website, requiring outlets to display the new prices. Meanwhile, on social media, many Cubans continue to assert that the primary issue is not the price of cement, but its extended absence from retail locations.
Cuban Cement Availability and Pricing: Common Questions
Why are the retail prices of cement being updated in Cuba?
The retail prices are being updated to align with changes in wholesale costs due to increased expenses for raw materials and outdated technology in production facilities.
Where will the newly allocated cement be distributed?
The cement is planned for distribution mainly in western provinces and eastern regions of Cuba that have been affected by recent weather events.
Who are the main beneficiaries of the cement distribution?
Priority will be given to individuals with approved construction subsidies and those who have suffered from natural disasters.