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The monopoly on communications in Cuba ETECSA confirmed that it has designed a plan to implement charges for its services in foreign currency.
In a press conference, Tania Velázquez, the executive president of the entity, revealed that foreign currency revenues account for only 10% of total income, and despite this, prices have remained static, which forces the company to maintain the network and pay its international debts.
"We know that these are services intended for the majority to use and enjoy. However, there is a sustainability issue that is not limited to the import of technology, but also to the payment for international connectivity capacity; if this is not paid, we fall into debt or risk legal action," he noted.
"This drives us to take actions to recover revenue from abroad, although these have not been effective, especially due to the 1x24 exchange rate gap, as well as the frauds occurring on certain platforms that directly affect our company," he added.
The management recalled that following the monetary restructuring implemented in 2021, the exchange rate of 1x24 was maintained, which made prices more affordable.
This is related to the announcement made by Prime Minister Manuel Marrero in December at the National Assembly, where he revealed that ETECSA will introduce new packages and services in foreign currency with additional services that are not currently offered.
Marrero then explained that the aim of the measure is to attract foreign exchange, as since the company implemented packages in the national currency (MN), offers in dollars have lost popularity.
Velázquez acknowledged the quality issues in internet access and attributed them to a lack of financial resources and insufficient investments, while traffic continues to increase, particularly through mobile telephony.
"The resources obtained from abroad are vital for improving service quality and expanding connectivity," he stated, emphasizing that "it is necessary to make decisions to reclaim the existing market."
"The population will continue to enjoy their services in national currency, but we will seek solutions to monetize them and sustain ourselves," he clarified, emphasizing that "this is not a publicity stunt, but rather making the services sustainable. ETECSA sustains itself with its own services."
Finally, the director emphasized that these solutions are not only based on mobile service but also on other market niches, such as new economic players.
"Regarding the Prime Minister's intervention in the National Assembly, efforts are underway to create the conditions for their implementation, and when they are ready, they will be explained in a timely manner. It's important for the public to understand the reasons behind these decisions."
Frequently Asked Questions about the Implementation of Dollar Payments by ETECSA
Why has ETECSA decided to implement payments in dollars?
ETECSA has decided to implement payments in dollars to attract more income from abroad. The CEO, Tania Velázquez, noted that foreign currency resources are essential for improving service quality and settling international debts, given that the current dollar income representation is only 10% of the total.
How will ETECSA's collection in dollars affect the Cuban population?
The measure could increase economic inequalities, as the population without access to dollars may face restricted access to telecommunications services. Although ETECSA assures that services will remain available in national currency, the implementation of rates in foreign currency may limit connectivity for those who rely solely on the Cuban peso.
What is the relationship between this measure and the economic situation in Cuba?
The measure responds to the serious economic crisis that Cuba is experiencing. The government aims to attract more foreign currency to sustain the economy and increase the flow of dollars, especially from Cubans abroad. This strategy is part of a context of partial dollarization and economic adjustments to address the lack of liquidity.
What challenges does ETECSA face in implementing this measure?
ETECSA faces challenges such as fraud and the currency gap when implementing this measure. The company has indicated that foreign platforms receive foreign currency, but due to fraud, what is translated in Cuba is in Cuban pesos. Additionally, the exchange gap of 1x24 complicates the effectiveness of efforts to recover income from abroad.
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