The Cuban blogger Víctor González (@victoriny_) visited a new supermarket in Havana where products are sold in the national currency, but at prices that are beyond the reach of a worker.
It is about "Punto Fresco", a store in CUP located at Avenida del Puerto y Ensenada de Atarés. Its design is open and mixes shopping areas with dining spaces, where customers can sit down to enjoy a pizza or savor a coffee.
In-store consumption is accumulated on a magnetic card of the establishment, but it is paid separately from supermarket products. Payments are made upon leaving the premises. González displayed the market prices, which leave no one indifferent.
A 500 ml bottle of water costs 140 pesos, a bottle of sunflower oil is priced at 750 CUP, and a package of sweet cookies costs 760 pesos. They also have sections for meats, dairy products, and fish, offering various items that are, however, not affordable for everyone in Cuba.
The blogger was surprised to discover Starbucks products in Cuba, although he did not detail the prices of these various coffees.
Other supermarkets in Havana
The Cuban government opened on December 30, 2024, a market in Havana that accepts payments in freely convertible currency (MLC). It belongs to the Spanish group VIMA and is located at the corner of Infanta and Santa Marta streets, in the Centro Habana municipality.
A short time ago, the regime opened a controversial market at 3rd and 70, in the Playa municipality, where only cash dollars or cards linked to foreign currency accounts are accepted.
Frequently Asked Questions about the New Supermarket in Havana and the Cuban Economy
What is the "Punto Fresco" supermarket in Havana?
Punto Fresco is a new supermarket in Havana where products are sold in Cuban national currency (CUP). However, prices are high and out of reach for most Cuban workers, reflecting the economic difficulties faced by the population in the country.
Why are the prices in these supermarkets so high?
The high prices in Cuban supermarkets are due to the devaluation of the Cuban peso and the government's strategy to attract foreign currency, prioritizing sales in dollars and other foreign currencies. This has created inequality in access to basic products, as many Cubans do not have access to this foreign currency.
How does dollarization affect the Cuban economy?
The dollarization of the Cuban economy increases social inequalities, as only those with access to foreign currency can purchase products in supermarkets that only accept dollars. This situation has exacerbated the economic and social crisis in the country, leaving many citizens on the sidelines of the market.
What impact does the opening of stores that only accept dollars have?
The opening of stores in Cuba that only accept dollars has generated outrage and discomfort among the population, as the majority of salaries on the island are paid in Cuban pesos. This has led to an increase in the informal currency market and has created unequal access to basic goods, intensifying social tensions.
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