Amid the height of mango season, a video shared on Facebook starkly illustrates the purchasing power crisis facing Cubans: mangoes are being sold for 200 pesos per pound, leaving some unable to afford even a whole one.
Captured by Lizardo Bello González, the video highlights an exchange between a buyer and seller, emblematic of the island's food crisis.
"How much for the mangoes, my friend?"
"200 pesos."
"Per pound? 200 pesos per pound?"
"200 per pound."
"Then... let me have half a mango."
"Half a pound?"
"Yes, because a whole mango must be around 400 or 500 pesos, right? Can you cut one for me?"
"Can't do that."
The buyer, unable to pay between 400 and 500 pesos for a whole mango, requests half a pound. The seller's refusal to cut the mango prevents the sale from happening.
The Price of Mangoes Amid Economic Strain
Mango season in Cuba runs from March to July, peaking in production during May and June. Typically, higher availability during these months reduces prices slightly compared to the start of the harvest.
The 200 pesos per pound shown in the video are unaffordable for most Cubans. In March 2025, prices peaked at 500 pesos per pound at Havana's 19 y B market.
The economic backdrop explains the outrage over the video. The average monthly salary in Cuba is approximately 6,930 pesos, equivalent to about $15 on the informal exchange market.
Purchasing a pound of mango at 200 pesos consumes nearly 3% of this income; a whole mango can cost between 6% and 7% of a monthly salary.
Soaring Inflation and Basic Needs
Independent economists estimate that the minimum living cost in Cuba exceeds 50,000 pesos monthly, about seven times the average salary.
Official food inflation was 16.65% year-on-year in March 2026, according to the National Office of Statistics and Information, although independent estimates suggest a real rate of around 70%.
Mangoes aren't the only fruits out of reach for Cubans. In May 2026, an apple was selling for 500 pesos, while in January, oranges reached 1,000 pesos per pound, and lemons were between 600 and 700 pesos. A basic grocery purchase can exceed 3,875 pesos, more than 56% of the monthly salary.
Government Measures and Market Realities
The government attempted to cap prices with Resolution 148/2025, setting maximum prices for agricultural products, but sellers systematically ignored it without facing effective consequences.
The ration book, once a subsidy for essential foods, has collapsed and no longer meets the population's needs. This forces Cubans to rely on a private market where prices are dictated by the rapid devaluation of the peso.
Mangoes, once a plentiful and affordable summer treat in Cuba, have become a luxury. With the minimum pension set at just 4,000 pesos, even pensioners must think twice before buying one.
Understanding Cuba's Economic Challenges
Why are mango prices so high in Cuba?
Mango prices are soaring due to economic factors, including high inflation and a devalued currency, which have significantly affected purchasing power.
What has been the government's response to food price inflation?
The Cuban government introduced Resolution 148/2025 to cap food prices, but it has been largely ineffective as sellers often disregard it without repercussions.
How does the average salary in Cuba compare to the cost of living?
The average salary in Cuba, around 6,930 pesos, is significantly lower than the estimated minimum living cost of over 50,000 pesos per month, exacerbating financial struggles.