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The distribution of rice remains a controversial issue in Cuba. The government assured that the delivery of 17 pounds of rice pending since December is progressing in the province of Villa Clara, dispelling rumors of a possible halt in the process due to a lack of fuel.
The information was released by the state-run station CMHW, which cited officials from the Commerce department in the province. According to these authorities, all municipalities already have part of the rice from the basic basket in their warehouses, and distribution is underway, although with delays.
The quotas correspond to the months of December, January, and February, and so far, only 10 pounds have been distributed in most areas, except in Sagua la Grande and Corralillo, where distribution began this Monday in some retail units.
The officials insisted that the transfer of rice from the port of Cienfuegos has not been interrupted and that, since March 5, more than 1,398 tons have been received at the wholesale warehouses in Villa Clara. Just this Sunday, they stated, 314 tons were transported.
Despite these statements, the population continues to face a severe food crisis and difficulties accessing basic products. The authorities justify the delays with logistical issues and prolonged blackouts, while citizens report that the shortages continue to affect Cuban families.
In the midst of the crisis, the government has announced that two of the 17 pounds of rice per consumer will be free, as these are donations from allied countries. However, for many Cubans, the late arrival of these food supplies is not enough to alleviate the precariousness they face daily.
A prolonged problem
The shortage of rice in Cuba is not a recent phenomenon. In recent years, national production has experienced a significant decline, which has increased dependence on imports and international donations.
For example, in 2024, only 30 percent of what was harvested in 2018 was achieved, according to a report from the state newspaper Granma, exacerbating the food crisis on the island.
To alleviate this situation, countries such as China and Vietnam have made significant rice donations. In April 2024, China sent a donation of 408 tons. Additionally, in March 2023, Vietnam donated 5,000 tons.
Despite these efforts, the internal distribution of the demanded cereal has faced multiple challenges. In February 2025, residents of Matanzas received only two pounds of rice with a two-month delay, highlighting the difficulties in the supply system.
Furthermore, the quality of the rice distributed has been a source of complaints; in December 2024, citizens reported that the rice from the store was arriving late, dirty, and with weevils.
The food crisis in Cuba has driven up rice prices in the informal market. At the end of February, the price of a pound of rice reached 300 Cuban pesos (CUP), a figure that highlights the severe scarcity and the deterioration of the population's purchasing power.
According to reports from citizens in various provinces, acquiring rice through the ration book has become an almost impossible task, forcing families to turn to the informal market, where prices have reached exorbitant levels.
Recently, the Ministry of Finance and Prices (MFP) announced the temporary regulation of maximum collection and retail prices for rice and common beans (black, red, and white) of national production.
The measure was established through Agreement 10093, approved on March 5, 2025, and published in the Official Gazette No. 7 (extraordinary) on March 7.
According to the regulations, the maximum prices approved for the national production of these products will be as follows:
The maximum retail price for controlled and released sales per pound will be, in the case of rice, 155 pesos. As for the procurement price per ton, it will be 239,000 pesos (consumption rice).
The government justifies this decision as part of its efforts to contain inflation, which has been exacerbated in recent years by the economic crisis, food shortages, and rising prices in the black market.
Frequently Asked Questions about Rice Distribution and the Food Crisis in Cuba
Why is the delivery of rice in Villa Clara being delayed?
The delivery of rice in Villa Clara is being delayed due to logistical issues and prolonged power outages. Authorities have assured that the transport of rice from the port of Cienfuegos has not been interrupted, but distribution is progressing slowly. The shortages and the widespread food crisis in Cuba are also impacting this process.
What is the Cuban government doing to address the shortage of rice?
To address the rice shortage, the Cuban government has relied on imports and donations from allied countries such as China and Vietnam. They have also announced the distribution of two pounds of free rice per consumer as part of these donations. However, these measures are not enough to alleviate the food insecurity that the Cuban population faces.
How has the economic crisis affected rice production in Cuba?
The economic crisis in Cuba has drastically reduced rice production, reaching only 30% of what was harvested in 2018. The lack of agricultural inputs, outdated machinery, and logistical problems have limited national production, increasing dependence on imports to meet domestic demand.
What is the impact of rice prices on the informal market in Cuba?
In the Cuban informal market, the price of a pound of rice has reached up to 300 Cuban pesos (CUP), reflecting the deep scarcity and the deterioration of the population's purchasing power. The crisis in rice production and distribution has forced many families to turn to the informal market, where prices are exorbitant.
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