The Cuban government reported on Wednesday that it has "enhanced" its economic strategy with the aim of reversing the crisis affecting the country, although without providing concrete details about new measures or implementation timelines.
The information was disseminated by official media following a meeting of the Council of State, led by its president Esteban Lazo Hernández and attended by the head of state, Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, as well as the Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz.
According to state television, during the meeting, the compliance and impact of the government's program measures to "correct distortions and revitalize the economy" were evaluated, an idea announced by the government at the beginning of 2024 and maintained throughout the current year.
The Cuban Prime Minister reported on the progress of the actions taken for each of the program's objectives, highlighting advancements in macroeconomic stabilization, the increase and diversification of foreign currency income to the country, and the strengthening of national production, with an emphasis on food.
Nevertheless, the reality faced by the population is far from the official narrative: inflation remains out of control, the scarcity of basic goods is worsening, and the partial dollarization of the economy continues to affect the majority of Cubans, who have no access to foreign currency.
In addition, he emphasized that the plan has been refined with a "scientific approach", establishing a work system with schedules, objectives, projections, actions, indicators, and concrete goals. He also noted that meetings with governors have been systematized to strengthen territorial development.
However, so far, there has been no precise evidence that these strategies generate a positive impact on the quality of life of the population. The promises of territorial development and strengthening of the productive sector stand in stark contrast to the lack of supplies, the challenges faced by the private sector, and the collapse of state infrastructure.
This program, announced by the regime in 2023 and adjusted several times, has been heavily criticized by experts who see it as a failed strategy to postpone the real structural reforms the country needs.
In 2024, the adjustment was made amid social uncertainty and negative public sentiment among the majority of the population due to the package of measures that brought an increase in prices and taxes on essential services such as water, gas, transportation, and energy, among others.
For its first phase this year, objectives were set such as the updating of electricity rates to promote energy savings, the establishment of maximum retail prices for basic products like rice and beans produced domestically, and the implementation of prepaid cards for fuel purchases by legal entities.
Meanwhile, the population continues to face a crisis that worsens day by day, with an increasingly uncertain economic future. With constant blackouts, shortages, and salaries that do not meet basic needs, these announcements continue to be perceived as yet another attempt to prolong a failed economic model that continues to suffocate the country.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Economic Situation in Cuba in 2025
What does it mean that the Cuban government has "perfected" its economic plan?
The Cuban government claims to have "refined" its economic plan with a "scientific approach," establishing timelines and concrete goals. However, no specific details have been provided regarding new measures or implementation deadlines, which raises skepticism due to the lack of tangible results in the Cuban economy.
Why is the official discourse of the Cuban government criticized by the population?
The official discourse is criticized because it does not reflect the everyday reality of Cubans, who are facing uncontrolled inflation, shortages of basic products, and constant blackouts. Despite announcements of economic improvements, the population does not see positive changes in their living conditions, which generates frustration and distrust.
What are the main criticisms of the Cuban government's economic plan for 2025?
Critics focus on the fact that the economic plan lacks concrete and effective measures to address the structural problems of the Cuban economy. Experts point out that the proposed actions are insufficient and that the government continues to avoid necessary structural reforms while blaming the U.S. embargo for the economic difficulties.
What is the impact of partial dollarization on the Cuban economy?
Partial dollarization has resulted in greater access to foreign currency for certain sectors, but it has increased social inequality. Only those who have access to dollars can benefit, which has widened the gap between the elite connected to power and the majority of the population who relies on government salaries in Cuban pesos.
What measures has the Cuban government taken to address the economic crisis in 2025?
The government has announced measures such as updating electricity rates and maximum retail prices for basic goods, but these actions have not addressed the structural issues of the economy. The lack of supplies, the energy crisis, and state control remain obstacles to economic development and the well-being of the population.
Filed under:
