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A group of Cuban fishermen had a very successful fishing day by catching a shark weighing over 250 pounds and four specimens of fish known as "Castero" or "Emperador," near the Havana Malecon.
The images of the capture, sent to journalist Mario Vallejo, have generated astonishment and numerous comments on social media, once again highlighting the complex nutritional reality faced by the Cuban people.
“It was amazing, we didn't expect to find this so close to the shore”, wrote one of those involved.
The fishermen, clearly pleased, displayed their catch on the sidewalk of the Malecón, where passersby stopped to admire the fruits of their labor.
For many, it symbolizes the possibility of a hearty meal on the table, something that, in the words of several commentators, "has practically been forgotten in Cuban households."
The post has sparked a flood of opinions, with the majority congratulating the fishermen and appreciating their efforts, while others are complaining about the government's inefficiency, which fails to provide the population with fish despite Cuba being an island.
“Many blessings for them; the sea is treacherous, and their families worry every time they go out to fish.” “This takes care of the rice and beans. Let’s help each other; that is the attitude.” “It’s very sad that, despite Cuba being a country with so many natural resources, the people go hungry,” were some opinions.
Others pointed out the irony that, on an island, fish is a luxury.
“Don't they say that the seas surrounding Cuba have no fish?”, questioned an internet user in reference to the explanations provided by the Cuban government to justify the lack of fish available for sale in the country.
“Three fishermen in a boat accomplish what the government cannot do with a fleet,” another pointed out sarcastically, illustrating the general perception of state inefficiency.
The capture also raised concerns about possible sanctions against the fishermen, who were advised to be more discreet to avoid having their catch confiscated.
Cuba, the island without fish
In September of last year, executives from the Grupo Empresarial de la Pesca en Cuba explained on the official program Mesa Redonda the reasons why they are unable to provide enough fish to the population.
Resource deficit: The group has an external liquidity deficit, which prevents them from acquiring raw materials and necessary equipment for fishing and processing seafood products.
Energy issues: The lack of fuel and electricity affects fishing operations and the functioning of industries, limiting the capture and production of fish.
Lack of vessels and equipment: The deterioration and lack of suitable vessels, along with the obsolescence of industrial equipment, limit the capacity for catch and production.
Priority to Other Sectors: Although 71% of industrial production is aimed at the population, 15% is dedicated to tourism and a significant portion is reserved for export to generate external income, which reduces the amount of fish available for internal consumption.
Issues of Poaching and Illegal Activities: Illegal fishing negatively impacts regulated production and the organized distribution of fishery products.
The fishing sector in Cuba, like that of housing construction, sugar production, agriculture, and others, also fails to meet its production targets.
Paradoxically, yes, they meet the export plans, particularly for lobsters and shrimp. So far this year, they are above 95% and have increased revenues. Both results are higher than last year.
The few resources available in the sector are allocated to prioritize exports in order to generate external income, but those gains are not reinvested to increase productivity, and therefore, the people have only seen empty fish markets for decades.
In 2023, the government stated that "Cuba is a country surrounded by sea, but the waters do not have the levels of fish needed to meet the population's demand, to satisfy this growing demand."
The Minister of Food Industry at that time, Manuel Sobrino Martínez, also attributed the shortage of fish in the country to the fact that more than 60 boats were out of service.
This minister was dismissed in early 2024, but he is still remembered for his explanation of the reasons why many Cubans have never tasted lobster.
"If we indulge in eating lobster and shrimp, there will be a shortage of milk for the children," commented Sobrino on the program Mesa Redonda in 2020.
Frequently Asked Questions about Fishing in Cuba and the Food Situation
What did the fishermen catch near the Malecón in Havana?
The fishermen caught a shark weighing over 250 pounds and four "Castero" or "Emperador" fish near the Malecón in Havana, which sparked astonishment and comments on social media regarding the food situation in Cuba.
Why is it difficult to find fish in Cuba?
The difficulty in finding fish in Cuba is due to a combination of factors, such as a deficit of resources, energy issues, a lack of suitable vessels, and the prioritization of exports over domestic consumption. These problems hinder the Cuban government from providing enough fish to the population, despite the fact that the island is surrounded by the sea.
How has the Cuban population reacted to the capture of large fish?
The capture of large fish by Cuban fishermen has been celebrated on social media, generating supportive comments for the fishermen and criticism towards the government for its inefficiency. The public sees these captures as a reflection of the people's ability to achieve what the government has not been able to, in terms of food supply.
What does fishing imply for the food situation in Cuba?
Fishing in Cuba could be a partial solution to the food crisis, but it is limited by strict regulations, lack of resources, and prioritization of exports. Many Cubans see fishing as an opportunity to improve their diet, although they rely on occasional catches due to a lack of government support.
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