The Matanzas press described the arrival of a shipment of rice to the province as an achievement, thanks to which consumers will receive two pounds corresponding to the month of December 2024, amidst a supply crisis that continues to affect the distribution of basic products on the island.
"The work has been constant, and many residents have witnessed the passage of cargo vehicles at late hours of the night, crossing the city towards the storage warehouses," said the official media Girón, to justify the delay of a missing food item on the Cuban table.
From the UEB 302 Bellotex, trucks began to leave with the cereal towards the warehouses in Matanzas, prioritizing the Popular Councils of Versalles, Playa, and the eastern area of the city.
According to the Wholesale Company of Food Products (EMPA) Matanzas, the delivery will gradually expand to the rest of the territories, depending on the arrival of shipments from Puerto Habana.
The rice, a staple food in the Cuban diet, has been in short supply in recent months. The solution offered by the authorities not only arrives with considerable delay but is also insufficient for the population.
The delivery of only two pounds per consumer, without any assurances regarding when the rations for January and February will be distributed, highlights the difficulties of the supply system.
Julio Padrón, director of municipal commerce, stated that the stores that have already received the product must sell it immediately to avoid further delays.
However, the measure does little to resolve the underlying issue: the irregular supply of essential food for the population.
The situation of rice in Cuba has significantly deteriorated in recent years. According to official data, the national rice production fell by 85% in 2023 compared to previous years, which has forced the country to rely heavily on imports and international donations to meet domestic demand.
This drastic decrease in production is attributed to multiple factors, including a lack of agricultural supplies, outdated machinery, and logistical issues.
Additionally, farmers have reported that the government pays very low prices for locally produced rice, which discourages production.
For example, in the province of Cienfuegos, a farmer pointed out that production costs far exceed the payments received, making agricultural activity unfeasible.
The shortage of rice directly impacts consumers. In some regions, its price has reached 250 pesos per pound in the informal market, a figure that is unattainable for most Cubans.
Additionally, when rice is available through the basic basket, it often arrives late and in poor condition, including the presence of dirt and pests.
The situation on the ground remains critical. The combination of insufficient national production, high prices in the informal market, and the distribution of low-quality products has generated a climate of uncertainty and discontent among the Cuban population, which sees its food security compromised in the short and medium term.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Food Supply Crisis in Cuba
Why will the people of Matanzas receive regulated rice from December in February?
The residents of Matanzas will receive the regulated rice for December in February due to the severe supply crisis affecting the island. The late arrival of the rice shipment highlights the logistical issues and lack of resources to ensure the timely distribution of basic food items in Cuba.
How does the rice shortage affect the Cuban population?
The shortage of rice in Cuba severely impacts the population, as it is a staple food in their daily diet. Insufficient distribution and the low quality of the product, often dirty and infested with weevils, heighten concerns about food security on the island, forcing many to turn to the informal market where prices are high.
What are the causes of the supply crisis in Cuba?
The supply crisis in Cuba is due to a combination of factors, including the decline in domestic food production, dependency on imports, logistical and financial issues, and government control over distribution. These factors have led to delays and shortages of basic products, impacting the entire population.
What measures is the Cuban government taking to address the food scarcity?
The Cuban government has tried to justify the situation with promises of logistical improvements and has announced agreements to increase production, such as granting land for rice cultivation. However, the concrete actions have been insufficient to resolve the crisis, and the situation remains critical for citizens.
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