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Cuban authorities announced on Thursday the suspension of basic basket bread production in all municipalities of Matanzas, due to the low availability of wheat flour.
The Provincial Food Company of Matanzas reported that "despite the efforts made, the territory does not have available flour for the production of bread for the regulated family basket in any municipality, as of today, February 27, 2025," according to a note posted on Facebook by the official newspaper Girón.
The head of the entity, Iván Castro Rodríguez, acknowledged on Wednesday that the efforts have been unsuccessful, describing the situation as a total failure; however, the day before, at least food was guaranteed for the provincial capital. By Thursday, even residents in the capital of the territory will be affected.
On social media, users' comments came quickly. Osmany Hernandez Caballero sarcastically remarked on the situation, saying, "I guess they're making bread with coal." Meanwhile, Eliza Bueno joked that "it's the fault of the blockade."
Ibet Diaz De Celis Curbelo expressed her indignation, stating that "people who depend on bread for their lunch or meals, what a disrespectful attitude."
This new shortage adds to the numerous food crises affecting the country. In recent months, the lack of basic supplies has been a constant issue that further deteriorates the quality of life for the population.
The suspension of bread production in Matanzas is part of a widespread crisis that has also impacted other provinces, such as Santiago de Cuba, where citizens recently reported the poor quality of regulated bread.
In 2024, the Ministry of Food Industry (MINAL) announced that by the end of March, there would be severe disruptions in bread delivery due to delays in wheat shipments.
The authorities explained that financial restrictions and logistical limitations hampered the arrival of wheat from distant markets. In response, measures such as reducing the weight of bread from 80 grams to 60 grams were implemented to maintain distribution, albeit in smaller quantities.
Additionally, the instability in the electricity supply and the shortage of fuel have impacted the production and distribution of bread, forcing authorities to implement sales on alternate days.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Bread Crisis in Matanzas
Why was the production of bread suspended in Matanzas?
Bread production in Matanzas has been suspended due to the low availability of wheat flour. This situation affects all municipalities in the province, including the capital, and is part of a widespread crisis of shortages of basic supplies in Cuba.
How does the wheat flour shortage affect the basic food basket in Cuba?
The shortage of wheat flour has led to a reduction in the size of the basic bread from 80 to 60 grams. This measure was implemented by the government to continue distributing bread, albeit in smaller amounts, affecting the quality of life of citizens who rely on this essential food.
What measures has the Cuban government taken in response to the food crisis?
The Cuban government has attempted to implement measures such as reducing the weight of bread and distributing it on alternate days. However, these actions have not addressed the underlying issue of the shortage of basic supplies and have generated discontent among the population.
What is the social impact of the bread crisis in Cuba?
The bread crisis in Cuba worsens the already critical food situation in the country. Thousands of Cubans depend on bread as an essential part of their daily diet, and the lack of this basic product increases the challenges of meeting minimum nutritional needs, directly impacting the quality of life of the population.
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