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The Ministry of Internal Trade (MINCIN) announced this Saturday about the delays and progress in the distribution of basic products through the rationing book, amid a crisis affecting thousands of Cuban families.
According to a statement released on social media, ensuring the supply of the regulated family basket remains a priority for the government, which is facing significant logistical and transportation challenges to supply over 12,000 stores across the country.
Despite the statements made, it was announced that, in the case of milk, children aged 0 to 2 will be guaranteed access until January 10, 2025.
However, in provinces such as Mayabeque, Cienfuegos, Sancti Spíritus, Camagüey, and Las Tunas, only fluid milk is provided for children aged 6 months to 1 year, while those between 2 and 6 years old living in Artemisa, Matanzas, Cienfuegos, Villa Clara, Ciego de Ávila, Las Tunas, and Granma receive fresh milk.
They will distribute a chocolate mix as a substitute in those provinces that receive powdered milk.
Other products, such as rice, are in the process of completing the pending deliveries from November (seven pounds), while the December deliveries will be carried out gradually.
It was also confirmed that the distribution of sugar (2 pounds per person), oil, and purees will take place, along with the grains that have been pending from previous months.
As for chicken, priority is given to children under 13 years old, those over 65, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic medical diets.
Regarding salt, they mentioned that it is available on the island and is currently being distributed and delivered.
The MINCIN also mentioned that, as part of the support from the World Food Programme, additional rations are being provided in provinces affected by hurricanes Oscar and Rafael.
Those affected in Artemisa and Guantánamo are receiving rice, peas, and oil, while food bags are being distributed to vulnerable individuals in Havana and other areas.
Regarding hygiene products, the distribution of soap and toothpaste continues to be conducted on a bimonthly basis, while liquid detergent is provided quarterly based on territorial priorities.
In recent months, the distribution of food items such as rice, sugar, oil, and chicken has experienced significant delays. For instance, in December 2023, the MINCIN acknowledged the shortage of rice, coffee, and grains in the warehouses at the beginning of the month, committing to fulfill the deliveries gradually
Additionally, in September 2024, it was reported that there would be a lack of oil and coffee in the basic grocery basket, reflecting the ongoing shortage of these products
The situation has been exacerbated by the government's recent decision to eliminate subsidies for the basic basket of goods, a measure that, according to Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz, "cannot be reversed." This policy aims to redirect aid towards vulnerable individuals, although the specific mechanisms for its implementation have not yet been detailed.
Furthermore, national food production has declined, increasing reliance on imports amidst a context of foreign currency shortages and financial restrictions
This situation has led the Government to publicly acknowledge the difficulties in ensuring the basic necessities, admitting the lack of resources and the need to adjust distribution policies.
Amid this crisis, the Cuban population is facing increasing difficulties in accessing essential goods, which has created a "very critical and very negative" mood, as acknowledged by the leader Miguel Díaz-Canel.
The authorities have reiterated their commitment to work towards improving the situation, but economic and logistical challenges continue to impact the daily lives of citizens.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Distribution of Basic Products in Cuba
How does the economic crisis affect the basic food basket in Cuba?
The economic crisis in Cuba has led to a significant shortage of basic goods, impacting the distribution of essential food items such as rice, oil, coffee, and milk. The removal of subsidies has worsened the situation, leaving many families without access to necessary products and increasing reliance on imports in a context of financial restrictions.
What measures is the Cuban government taking to address the shortage of milk?
The Cuban government has announced that, due to a shortage of powdered milk, a chocolate mix is being distributed as a substitute in certain provinces. This measure has faced significant criticism for failing to meet the nutritional needs of children, highlighting the severity of the food crisis the island is experiencing.
What basic food products are the Cuban authorities prioritizing?
The Cuban government has prioritized the distribution of products such as rice, sugar, oil, and chicken, especially for vulnerable groups like children under 13, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic medical diets. However, the distribution remains insufficient to meet the needs of the entire population, amid ongoing delays and shortages.
How is the removal of subsidies on basic goods impacting Cuba?
The removal of subsidies for basic goods has deepened public discontent and increased difficulties for Cuban families, who rely on rationed products for their survival. This measure has led to long lines and delays in the delivery of essential goods, exacerbating the food crisis in the country.
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