In a context characterized by inflation, power outages of up to 20 hours a day, and limited internet access, the Cuban leader, Miguel Díaz-Canel, has emphasized the need to promote micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that are state-owned and based on advanced technology.
His intention is to promote a model of "knowledge-intensive economy." The proposal emerged during a meeting of the National Innovation Council (CNI), where the leader and other officials discussed the creation of state-owned startups and their impact on the Cuban economy.
"What is limiting the creation of these Mipymes is not the approval times; what limits us is that there are hardly any proposals for state Mipymes with a high-tech basis," protested Díaz-Canel.
The initiative clashes with the reality of a country where the majority of citizens do not have access to powerful computers, internet is a luxury that many young people cannot afford, and constant power outages hinder the stability of any technology-based business model.
However, the Doctor in Sciences Agustín Lage Dávila stated that the creation of these state-owned Mipymes is "possible despite the current conditions of the country."
Bureaucracy, inequality, and a myriad of obstacles
In order for these companies to thrive, several experts agreed that it is necessary to create agile approval mechanisms and provide them with the same opportunities and incentives that private small and medium enterprises have, which has not happened so far.
Rafael Luis Torralba Ezpeleta, president of the Scientific and Technological Park of Havana, emphasized the importance of allowing these entities to freely manage the income generated from exports, something that has not yet been guaranteed by the Cuban government.
The Prime Minister, Manuel Marrero Cruz, acknowledged that the Cuban business system faces serious problems and challenges, although he did not address the fundamental contradiction of trying to develop advanced technology in a country where the lack of electricity and access to the internet remain insurmountable barriers.
While the government advocates for a model of a "knowledge-intensive economy," the majority of Cubans continue to struggle daily to put food on the table and to find a way to cook their meals amid an increasingly deepening crisis.
Without access to technology, without basic guarantees for the operation of digital businesses, and with an economy on the brink of collapse, the idea of creating state-owned advanced technology SMEs seems, at least in the short term, like yet another strategy disconnected from the Cuban reality.
Frequently Asked Questions about State-Owned Technology Mipymes in Cuba
Why does Díaz-Canel propose creating state-owned Mipymes of advanced technology in Cuba?
Díaz-Canel proposes the creation of state-owned Mipymes focused on advanced technology to promote a model of "knowledge-intensive economy." The goal is to encourage innovation and modernize the Cuban economy through the development of state startups, despite the current adverse conditions in the country.
What are the main obstacles for technological SMEs in Cuba?
Technological Mipymes in Cuba face challenges such as the lack of access to powerful computers, limited internet connectivity, and frequent blackouts. These conditions hinder the development of businesses based on advanced technology, presenting a significant challenge for the success of these initiatives.
What needs to change for state-owned Mipymes to thrive in Cuba?
For state-owned Mipymes to thrive, it is essential to improve technological infrastructure, facilitate internet access, and ensure a stable power supply. Moreover, agile approval mechanisms and opportunities and incentives similar to those of private Mipymes are required, changes that have not yet been implemented.
How does the energy crisis affect technological initiatives in Cuba?
The energy crisis in Cuba, characterized by prolonged blackouts, negatively impacts technological initiatives by disrupting the operations of businesses and access to digital resources. Without a reliable power supply, any effort to develop advanced technology is compromised, limiting the potential for innovation in the country.
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