The recent decision by the Provincial Administrative Council of Camagüey to cap the price of a pound of rice at 155 Cuban pesos has led to the massive closure of sales points in the Hatibonico market, due to the refusal of cooperative representatives to sell the product at that rate.
In the black market, the pound of rice reaches 250 pesos, a figure significantly higher than the official price set by local authorities. This discrepancy has led to a conflict between sellers and consumers, leaving the population without access to this basic food, even though the goods are available.
Rolando Canto Cabrera, manager of the Hatibonico market, stated that they will summon the representatives of the closed sales points to analyze the situation along with the heads of the cooperatives and determine whether they actually have inventory or not.
In addition, he warned that sanctions could be applied to those who refuse to sell rice at the regulated price.
Meanwhile, provincial inspectors are inspecting the market to ensure that rice is sold according to the established ceiling. This measure has led many vendors to choose to hold onto their merchandise, thereby avoiding selling it at a price they consider unsustainable.
The situation has generated discontent among the population of Camagüey, which demands the reopening of sales points and the immediate availability of rice.
"Sell it because there is rice on the market!", consumers report. Cubans are finding it increasingly difficult to access basic food items in an economic context marked by inflation and scarcity.
What is happening with rice in Cuba?
The rice crisis in Cuba has worsened in recent months, affecting the population's food supply. In Matanzas, families have received only two pounds of rice after a two-month delay in the distribution of the basic food basket.
This prolonged scarcity has generated discontent among the population, who are facing difficulties in accessing one of the essential foods in the Cuban diet.
The shortage not only affects consumers but also producers. A Cuban farmer reported that the government pays rice at extremely low prices, which discourages production and contributes to the imbalance between supply and demand.
This situation, combined with the lack of supplies and the high cost of living in rural areas, makes it difficult to maintain production at adequate levels.
The monthly food allowance has also been reduced. In some regions, families have received only two pounds of rice and 10 ounces of peas as part of the state distribution.
This amount is insufficient to meet basic needs, forcing many Cubans to turn to the informal market, where prices are significantly higher.
Frequently asked questions about the rice crisis in Cuba
Why are rice sellers in Camagüey closing their stalls?
Vendors are closing their stalls because the government has set a price cap of 155 Cuban pesos per pound of rice, a price they consider unsustainable compared to the value of 250 pesos in the black market. This has led vendors to choose not to sell rice under the imposed rates, affecting the population's access to this staple food.
What is the current situation of rice in the Cuban black market?
In the Cuban black market, the pound of rice is sold for 250 pesos, significantly higher than the official price of 155 pesos set by the government. This price difference reflects the scarcity of rice and the inability of the state system to adequately supply the population.
What measures has the Cuban government taken in response to the rice crisis?
The Cuban government has set a price cap for a pound of rice, and has deployed inspectors to ensure compliance with the regulated price. However, these actions have been insufficient to resolve the shortage and have caused tension between sellers and the population due to the lack of access to the product.
How does the rice shortage affect the Cuban population?
The shortage of rice severely affects the daily diet of Cubans, who depend on this staple food. The lack of rice forces many to turn to the black market, where prices are unaffordable for most, worsening food insecurity in the country.
What challenges do rice producers face in Cuba?
Rice producers in Cuba face several challenges, including extremely low government purchase prices, lack of agricultural supplies, and outdated machinery. These factors discourage production and contribute to the current rice shortage in the country.
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