The Cuban comedian Otto Ortiz has made people laugh again, this time with a video posted on his Facebook profile, where he shares his unique preparation for going shopping at the famous Supermercado de 3ra y 70 in Havana.
The establishment operates in dollars, but due to the shortage of U.S. coins, they give change in candy. The comedian is ready to face the situation.
“If they give me candies as change, I can also bring my candies to pay and get my whole dollar back,” said Otto.
His logic has sparked intense debate and laughter among followers, who have eagerly shared similar situations and very amusing ideas about what those payments in Cuba could be like.
The comedian humorously questioned the rules of state dollar trading, proposing an economy based on sweets. “It’s pure logic,” Otto asserts while displaying a handful of candies as an example of his revolutionary proposal.
The video, published this Friday, has generated thousands of reactions on social media, where Cubans find a breath of relief amid daily complexities. Once again, Otto Ortiz demonstrates that laughter is the best ally in facing the ironies of reality in Cuba.
What’s going on with the supermarket at 3rd and 70 and the candies?
The supermarket at 3rd and 70 in Havana, recently opened, has become the epicenter of controversy due to its exclusive features and the practice of giving change in candy.
The store operates exclusively with cash in dollars or through cards linked to foreign currency accounts, reflecting the increasing dollarization of the Cuban economy and the deep social inequalities it generates.
The practice of change in candies, although presented as a solution to the shortage of low-denomination coins, has been criticized by both market customers and Cubans in exile.
For many people, this evokes memories of abusive economic practices implemented by the regime in past decades, such as forced currency exchanges and the loss of savings after each monetary transformation. The outrage has been amplified on social media, where users denounce the disdain for the genuine needs of the population and question the ethics behind such measures.
The supermarket at 3rd and 70 is also criticized for its exorbitant prices, unattainable for the average Cuban who earns their salary in pesos. A Cuban rum priced at 779 dollars or a panettone costing over 15 dollars are examples of the disconnect between the store's offerings and the economic reality in the country.
This has led to the supermarket being perceived as a space reserved for a privileged minority or for those who receive remittances from abroad. The opening of this store has also sparked a broader debate about economic exclusion and the increasing social polarization in Cuba.
Frequently Asked Questions about the supermarket at 3rd and 70 and the Cuban economy
Why does the supermarket at 3rd and 70 give change in candies?
The supermarket at 3rd and 70 in Havana gives change in candies as a solution to the shortage of low-denomination coins in dollars. This practice has been criticized for reflecting the economic shortages in the country and the disconnect between government policies and the needs of the population.
What criticisms has the 3rd and 70 supermarket received?
The supermarket at 3rd and 70 has received criticism for its exclusivity and high prices, making it an accessible space only for a privileged minority. Furthermore, the practice of giving change in candies has been viewed as a symbol of the government's disdain for the real needs of the Cuban population.
What impact does dollarization have on the Cuban economy?
The partial dollarization of the Cuban economy has created significant social inequalities, limiting access to essential goods for those without foreign currency. This has intensified economic polarization and widened the gap between social classes in Cuba.
How has the Cuban population reacted to the use of candy as change?
The Cuban population has reacted with criticism and discontent to the use of candies as change, viewing it as mockery and a sign of the government's economic improvised approach. On social media, both inside and outside of Cuba, Cubans express their outrage and frustration regarding this measure.
Filed under:
