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Cuban Mery Guevara shared a video on her Facebook profile showcasing the price of a pork leg in the United States, comparing it to the high cost of this meat in Cuba.
In Miami, a pork shoulder, like the ones shown by Mery, costs $24.90, at a rate of $0.99 per pound. The price is significantly lower than what Cubans face in hard currency stores on the island and at the farmers' markets.
In the famous new supermarket at 3rd and 70 in Havana, the price of a pork leg can exceed 50 dollars, a cost that has sparked controversy among consumers because it can only be paid in foreign currency.
This market has been heavily criticized by Cubans, as they believe that this state business model excludes the majority of the population who do not have access to dollars or other foreign currencies.
The contrast doesn’t end there. In Cuba, a pound of pork reached over 1,500 Cuban pesos during the New Year, equivalent to 4.44 dollars according to the current exchange rate, with the U.S. dollar trading at 338 pesos this Friday.
The pork is a fundamental element in the Cuban diet, and it has become a luxury due to the economic crisis that the country is facing, characterized by inflation and the scarcity of products in state markets.
The comparison made by Mery Guevara is yet another example of the contrast between the cost of living in Cuba and abroad, which remains a topic of debate among Cubans both on the island and overseas.
Price of pork in Cuba in 2024
At the end of 2024, pork, which used to be a staple at year-end dinners, reached prohibitive prices for most Cuban families. A pound of boneless leg was sold in agricultural markets for 1,000 pesos, while smoked loin reached 1,100 pesos.
In MLC stores, prices were even higher, with a pork leg costing around 70 dollars, which is equivalent to nearly 12,000 Cuban pesos.
The situation worsened during the Christmas and New Year celebrations, as inflation and the removal of subsidies further complicated access to basic food items.
An analysis of prices conducted in various markets in Havana revealed that the price of pork shoulder ranged between 1,100 and 1,300 pesos, while steak exceeded 1,500 pesos.
These prices, combined with an average monthly salary of 4,000 pesos, left most households unable to enjoy a traditional Christmas dinner.
The impact of this crisis was also reflected on social media, where a humorous letter went viral, recounting the ordeal of trying to prepare a New Year’s Eve dinner in Cuba.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Price of Pork in Cuba and Its Social Impact
Why is the price of pork so high in Cuba?
The price of pork in Cuba is exorbitant due to the economic crisis, government inefficiency, and the shortage of necessary supplies for pig production. This has turned pork, a traditional food in the Cuban diet, into an inaccessible luxury for many families.
How does the high cost of pork affect Cuban families?
The high cost of pork limits Cuban families' access to an important source of protein, especially during celebrations such as New Year's. This affects their ability to maintain culinary traditions and forces many to seek less satisfying alternatives.
What alternatives do Cubans have in light of the high prices of pork?
The alternatives are limited, as other meat products like chicken have also experienced a significant increase in prices. Many families choose to reduce their meat consumption and seek more affordable protein sources, although the supply is scarce and often of low quality.
How has the pork crisis impacted Cuban festivities?
The pork crisis has severely impacted Cuban festivities, as this food is traditionally part of the New Year's Eve dinner. Many families can no longer afford to include pork on their table, which disrupts the celebrations and generates frustration among Cubans.
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