The recent announcement by the Cuban government regarding the gradual removal of subsidies for the basic food basket, distributed through the ration booklet, has sparked a wave of criticism and concern among citizens, who argue that this measure will worsen the already challenging economic situation of the population.
Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz stated that the decision aims to "correct economic distortions and redirect subsidies towards those in vulnerable situations."
However, he acknowledged that the results of the economic plan have not met expectations and that this measure will significantly impact the family budget.
In the comments on the news article published by CiberCuba regarding the official's announcement, Cubans quickly expressed their opinions, many of which were filled with frustration and fatigue: "We can’t take it anymore," asserted one reader.
The user identified on Facebook as Andrés Manuel Díaz stated, "There is a significant portion of the population that is very vulnerable. Today we are not being properly fed because our salaries are well below the high prices in the private sector."
For his part, Sandro Armas Mederos warned about the impact on pensioners and low-income individuals: "The elderly living with the hope that something will arrive at the store will starve."
Yaima Castillo and Yaimirys Cruz agreed that the ration book no longer serves its purpose. "They should just eliminate it completely, since it doesn’t provide anything anyway," said Castillo. Cruz added, "The time of waiting for what would come through the ration book has passed. If you don't hustle on your own, you won't get by."
In contrast, Miriela Gutiérrez and Marta Rafaela Pérez Padrón directed their criticisms toward the government’s management, even questioning the continued presence of high officials in their positions. “And I imagine they’ll also remove the minister,” Gutiérrez remarked.
The price of food in Cuba is so high that basic products like rice, sugar, and bread may become unaffordable for many families. Despite the government's promises to redirect subsidies to the most vulnerable, no clear details have been provided on how this strategy will be implemented, leaving most Cubans in a state of uncertainty.
This announcement comes amid an economic crisis characterized by sustained inflation, a shortage of essential goods, and increasing public discontent, which threatens to further worsen living conditions in the country.
Frequently Asked Questions about Subsidy Removal in Cuba
Why did the Cuban government decide to eliminate subsidies for the basic food basket?
The Cuban government has decided to eliminate subsidies for the basic food basket as part of a plan to rectify economic distortions and revitalize the economy. Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz stated that removing these subsidies is a complex but necessary measure, given the impact on the country's budget and economy.
How will the elimination of subsidies affect Cuban families?
The removal of subsidies for basic goods will significantly impact Cuban families, as essential products like rice, sugar, eggs, and bread could become unaffordable for many households due to high prices. The government has promised to redirect subsidies to vulnerable individuals, but it has not clearly explained how this will be implemented.
What measures does the Cuban government propose to mitigate the impact of the elimination of subsidies?
The Cuban government plans to redirect subsidies to individuals in vulnerable situations, although specific mechanisms have not been detailed. The regime claims to be working on a plan to avoid worsening living conditions, but most Cubans are experiencing economic hardship, which casts doubt on the effectiveness of these measures.
What is the current economic context in Cuba?
Cuba is facing an economic crisis characterized by sustained inflation, shortages of food and basic goods, and increasing public discontent. The situation has been exacerbated by failed economic policies implemented since 2021, which have heightened the dependence on imports and worsened the availability of essential products. The crisis has severely impacted the quality of life for the population, which is now facing additional challenges due to the removal of subsidies.
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