Caribbean Stores has announced the reopening of several outlets in Santiago de Cuba, all operating under the system of sales in freely convertible currency (MLC) or dollars.
The state-run company revealed on its official Facebook page that this Tuesday, the Variedades Enramadas Shopping Center, located on the bustling Aguilera Street, resumed operations to sell products in dollars.
Additionally, they confirmed the reopening of the Siglo XX Store, situated between Enramadas, San Pedro, and Santo Tomás, along with the La Violeta Store in the San Luis municipality, both accepting MLC.
This move is perceived as a "poisoned gift" for the locals since purchases can only be made using international cards or national AIS, Tropical, and Clásica cards, all linked to foreign currency accounts.
Caribbean Stores promoted these reopenings with slogans of "renewal, quality, and commitment," although the announcements were met with criticism and sarcasm from citizens highlighting that most Santiago residents lack access to dollars or MLC accounts.
The new retail locations offer food, personal hygiene products, household items, and appliances, within a backdrop where wages are paid solely in Cuban pesos (CUP) and the informal dollar exchange rate significantly exceeds the population's purchasing power.
As a "perk," Caribbean Stores maintains a 5% bonus for payments made with the Clásica card, a strategy that benefits only those who already have access to foreign currency.
The company also shared messages about the "culture of service" and "personalized attention" at Variedades Enramadas, portraying the reopening as a chance to "strengthen relationships with customers and the community."
However, for the majority of Santiago residents, the reopening of foreign currency-collecting stores symbolizes yet another instance of inequality: while a select few can shop in dollars, most struggle without potable water, endure daily blackouts, and face severe shortages of essential medicines and basic foodstuffs.
The disparity is particularly stark after the Civil Defense declared "normalcy" in the province this Tuesday, two months following Hurricane Melissa's passage, despite residents asserting that normalcy is far from reality.
Promises of distributing construction materials and state assistance remain unfulfilled, and the reopening of foreign currency stores arrives as a "Christmas gift" that few can afford.
Implications of Dollar-Only Stores in Santiago de Cuba
Why are the dollar-only stores seen as controversial in Santiago de Cuba?
The stores are controversial because they highlight economic inequality. Most residents are paid in Cuban pesos, which are not accepted in these stores, making them inaccessible to the majority.
What products are offered at these reopened stores?
The stores offer a range of products including food, personal care items, household goods, and appliances, all priced in dollars or MLC.
How has the local population reacted to the store reopenings?
The reaction has been largely negative, with many criticizing the move as it caters only to those with access to foreign currency, leaving out a significant portion of the population.