On Wednesday, a CIMEX branch in Havana announced the sale of school supplies in dollars just days before the start of the 2026-2027 school year. This announcement sparked widespread criticism as many questioned how families could afford these essentials when their earnings are in Cuban pesos.
The CIMEX Habana Oeste branch shared the promotion on Facebook, sarcastically inviting customers to shop for school materials at Galería Parcela 70, located on 3rd Avenue and 70th Street in the Playa municipality.
Photos accompanying the post displayed shelves stocked with calculators, stationery, and other school necessities.
Public Outrage Over Dollar Sales
Unsurprisingly, the post drew considerable backlash, primarily because the products are sold in a currency that most Cuban workers do not earn. "What Cuba do these people live in?" questioned one user, highlighting the apparent parallel realities existing within the country.
Another sarcastic comment remarked, "Free education with material expenses in USD and salaries in CUP, a marvel of Cuban economics."
The Economic Burden on Cuban Families
"Well, let those who earn dollars buy," wrote another commenter, while a mother challenged, "And what Cuban mother earns dollars to shop there?"
Others argued that basic supplies should be available in the national currency to ensure broader access for families.
Additional comments pointed to the financial strain of preparing a child for school. "With what salary do I buy school supplies?" asked one person, while another noted, "You can't even cover a child's notebook in Cuba anymore."
Challenges Beyond School Supplies
This controversy arises amidst other challenges Cuban families face as the school year approaches.
In Ciego de Ávila, officials recently acknowledged that uniform distribution would prioritize only preschool, fifth, and seventh grades, with nearly 2,700 garments still needing to be made.
Feeding students is another pressing concern. A Cuban mother questioned what snacks children could bring to school, stating she found cooking oil priced at 4,000 pesos and sausages at 1,200 pesos, making even simple options hard to afford for many families.
A personal estimate of breakfast and snack costs for a child placed the monthly expense at 10,160 pesos, excluding lunch, dinner, transportation, shoes, clothing, notebooks, or backpacks.
FAQs About School Supplies and Economic Challenges in Cuba
Why are school supplies being sold in dollars in Cuba?
The sale of school supplies in dollars is part of a broader trend where certain goods are only available in foreign currency in Cuba, despite most salaries being paid in pesos. This creates a significant barrier for many families.
How are Cuban families coping with the high cost of school supplies?
Many families struggle to afford school supplies due to the high costs and the fact that they are sold in dollars. Some rely on remittances or seek alternatives to manage their children's educational needs.
What other challenges do Cuban families face as the school year begins?
Apart from the cost of supplies, Cuban families confront issues such as limited access to school uniforms and the high expense of student meals, which add to the financial burden of preparing for the new school year.