The Cuban government has opened a new supermarket in Havana at 3rd and 70, across from the older one that operates in freely convertible currency (MLC).
The modern establishment, unlike the old one, is well stocked with both national and foreign products, but it only accepts cash in dollars or cards linked to accounts in foreign currency, leaving most Cubans unable to access these products.
A video shared by the Facebook profile La Kinkalla TV shows shelves packed with Bravo deli meats, national beers and sodas, malt beverages, frozen products from Vima, chicken, pork, turkey, and beef, as well as juices, oils, pasta, cookies, and other confections.
It also has a section for personal care, cleaning products, household supplies, and a department for appliances.
High prices at the new supermarket on 3rd and 70
The prices at the new supermarket on 3rd and 70 are unaffordable for most Cubans. A 500-gram panettone is sold for $15.20, a figure that far exceeds the average monthly salary in CUP.
"There are many people shopping thanks to the Cubans who are leaving," commented the video's creator, referring to the diaspora that sends remittances to support their families on the island.
Payment in dollars or there's nothing
The supermarket is part of the Gran Muthu Habana Hotel, which opened in 2023 and is managed by the MGM Muthu Hotels chain and the Gaviota group, controlled by the military leadership of the regime.
Payments can be made in cash in dollars, with the Clásica card from Fincimex, or with a new special card from GAESA's financial institution that can be recharged from abroad.
The store also features a department for appliances, becoming an exclusive space for those who have access to foreign currency.
Dollarization and Inequality in Cuba
This market is a clear reflection of the dollarization of the Cuban economy, where the government prioritizes sales in dollars while the people struggle to survive with an increasingly devalued Cuban peso.
These exclusive stores serve as a reminder of the deep inequalities that divide Cuban society and how the reliance on foreign currency exacerbates the island's economic and social crisis.
Frequently Asked Questions about the New Supermarket in Havana and Dollarization in Cuba
Where is the new supermarket that only accepts dollars in Havana?
The new supermarket is located at 3rd and 70, in front of the former market that operated in Convertible Foreign Currency (MLC), and is part of the Gran Muthu Habana Hotel.
What products can be found at the supermarket on 3rd and 70?
This supermarket is well-stocked with both national and international products, including Bravo deli meats, beers, soft drinks, frozen goods, chicken, pork, turkey, and beef, as well as juices, oils, pasta, and cookies.
Why does the new supermarket in Havana only accept dollars?
The supermarket is part of the Cuban government's effort to dollarize the economy, prioritizing sales in dollars in light of the devaluation of the Cuban peso and the economic crisis affecting the island.
How does the dollarization of stores affect the Cuban population?
Dollarization increases inequality in Cuba, as many Cubans do not have access to dollars, which limits their purchasing power in these stores and exacerbates the economic and social crisis on the island.
Filed under:
