The Cuban government has opened a new market in Havana that accepts payments in Freely Convertible Currency (MLC), managed and supplied by the Spanish group VIMA.
The venue was inaugurated on December 30th at the corner of Infanta and Santa Marta streets, in the Centro Habana municipality.
Unlike the new market that opened a few days ago at 3rd and 70, Playa, which only accepts cash in dollars or cards linked to foreign currency accounts, this one does operate with MLC - like the other stores - and for now, it can only be paid for with cards, not cash.
The Caribe Store Chain promoted the use of QR codes and the Classic Card on its social media.
"In the store, we also provide this service. Additionally, we offer a 5% discount when paying with a Clásica Card. You can purchase or recharge your card directly at the location and check your balance through Enzona_BX, accompanied by excellent service," the company stated on its Facebook page.
In response to a user's observation, they had to acknowledge that each time a payment is made, the customer loses 1 USD due to the tax imposed by Cadeca.
The Cuban YouTuber known for his channel JSant TV visited the establishment and verified how well-stocked it is—not just with VIMA products—and that some food items, like oil, are sold at lower prices than "on the street."
Last May, the government announced it would hand over the management of 20 stores to the Spanish group VIMA, which has been operating in Cuba for three decades. At that time, it was reported that the Paseo market would also be included in the agreement.
In mid-November, a new MLC store was opened in the Plaza de la Revolución municipality, supplied by a Basque provider.
The Amistad 26 market, located at the intersection of Avenida 26 and Zapata, will now also be known as the Caribe-Berría minimarket, following the collaboration between the Caribe store chain and the Basque supplier Aldaketa.
Frequently Asked Questions about the New MLC Market in Havana
What is new about the market in Havana that accepts MLC?
The new market in Havana accepts payments in freely convertible currency (MLC), managed by the Spanish group VIMA. Inaugurated on December 30, it only allows card payments, not cash, and offers a 5% discount with the Classic Card.
What impact does the opening of MLC stores have on the Cuban economy?
The MLC stores have heightened economic inequalities in Cuba, as many Cubans do not have direct access to foreign currency. They emerged in 2019 as a measure to attract foreign exchange, but have exacerbated shortages in stores that accept Cuban pesos and created a dual market that impacts the majority of the population.
How does the partial dollarization of the Cuban economy affect its citizens?
Partial dollarization increases the economic exclusion of those who do not have access to dollars. Recent measures allow for dollar payments in strategic sectors, but Cubans who do not receive remittances or do not have access to foreign currency face greater difficulties in acquiring basic goods.
What are the criticisms regarding the prices and the selection in the MLC stores?
Prices in MLC stores are considered unaffordable for most Cubans, with products exceeding the average monthly salary. Furthermore, the perception of inequality is heightened by the fully stocked shelves in these establishments, while shops accepting national currency remain understocked.
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