The state-run newspaper, Periódico Girón, recently published a promotional piece highlighting the opening of a new Copextel retail store in Matanzas, which will sell household appliances in foreign currency. The headline boasted, "Currency for Development and Competitive Prices," but the reception was less than enthusiastic.
Currency-Driven Initiative Amid Financial Struggles
This new store operates under a "Financial Self-Management Project" approved for the state-owned company. Marta Beatriz Menéndez Rodríguez, the general manager of the branch, emphasized the primary goal of collecting foreign currency. She stated, "These funds will go towards purchasing parts for our workshop, allowing us to repair household appliances. Additionally, the profits will help us acquire fuel necessary for continuing services to the public, supporting hospitals, and installing photovoltaic stations."
Public Skepticism and Criticism
Despite the optimistic presentation, the announcement triggered a flood of negative comments from Cubans who are fed up and frustrated. Many pointed out the contradiction of the government charging in dollars while salaries are paid in Cuban pesos. One user sarcastically remarked, "Well, since everyone earns in foreign currency, let's rush to the store and buy. That's how you develop the economy."
Critics also drew parallels to the 2019 launch of stores in freely convertible currency, recalling promises to use those funds to stock stores with national currency goods. "We remember: 'Stores will open in MLC, and that money will stock national currency stores.' We have memories, though it's all so dismal," commented another.
Critique on Pragmatic Grounds
The irony of selling electrical appliances in Matanzas, a province notorious for power outages, was not lost on the public. One person remarked, "Selling appliances without electricity while the Guiteras plant is failing, to use that currency to buy fuel... it's the same old story," referencing the frequently malfunctioning Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant in the area.
Others questioned the reliability of the store's warranties. "They open a new Copextel store with panels and all, yet I've been waiting over a month for my panel's warranty. It's a disaster," complained a shopper. Another recounted buying a television from a Copextel store last December, only to use it for just 15 days since the purchase.
Lack of Transparency Fuels Discontent
Adding to the dissatisfaction, the Periódico Girón article failed to provide essential details like the store's exact location, contact information, or product prices, prompting numerous comments demanding this basic information. Only one commenter identified the store's location on San Luis Avenue in the Pueblo Nuevo neighborhood of Matanzas.
One commenter succinctly captured the widespread discontent, stating, "If the prices are competitive, they're competing with the workers' salaries." This sentiment reflects the broader perception of the store's opening as another twist in the regime's partial dollarization policy, imposed since December 2025, with salaries still paid in pesos.
Understanding the Economic Tensions in Cuba
Why is the opening of a foreign currency store in Matanzas controversial?
The controversy stems from the fact that while the store sells items in foreign currency, most Cubans earn their wages in pesos, making these goods inaccessible to many. This situation highlights the economic disparity and challenges faced by the local population.
What are the criticisms regarding the store's warranties?
Consumers have expressed doubts about the reliability of warranties offered by Copextel, citing delays and inefficiencies in fulfilling them. This has led to dissatisfaction and mistrust among customers.
How does the current electricity situation in Matanzas impact the store's operations?
Frequent power outages in Matanzas challenge the practicality of selling electrical appliances. This contradiction has been a point of criticism, as residents question the feasibility of using such products amid unreliable electricity supply.