Una cubana en Estados Unidos compartió en TikTok un video mostrando everything he bought in a Chinese store for 120 dollars to send it to his family in Cuba. La usuaria @thalia_hr exhibió los productos que compró, como pilas, pasta de dientes, aspirinas, pinzas de cejas, chupa chupas, un colador de cocina, cepillos de dientes, bicarbonato de sodio, latas de salchichas, pomadas, frijoles, especias y más.
"You can't even get all this at Dollar Tree for 120 dollars", commented the Cuban woman, surprised by the quantity and price of the products in the store in Hialeah, Florida. Her video sparked various reactions, with users congratulating her on her purchase and others stating that many of those products are available in Cuba, although at very high prices.
The video has reignited the debate over the shipment of products from abroad, a common practice among emigrants to assist their families amid the economic crisis in Cuba. On social media, other Cubans have showcased similar purchases at Family Dollar, Walmart, and supermarkets, acquiring hygiene, cleaning, and food items. While some defend these shipments as a necessity, others criticize them for fostering the island's economic dependency.
Many users asked about the exact location of the store, to which the TikToker responded that it is in Hialeah, Florida. However, some expressed doubts about the quality of the products. "Those batteries are useless," commented one user, while others questioned the sale of medications in these stores. There were also inquiries about whether these products could enter Cuba without customs restrictions.
The video reflects the increasing importance of shipments and remittances for the livelihoods of many families in Cuba. Although some products can be found on the island, the prices are unaffordable for most workers earning in Cuban pesos. "It's incredible how much we carry there and we don't even cover a fraction of the needs," lamented a user.
Frequently Asked Questions about Shipping Products to Cuba from the United States
Why do Cuban emigrants send products to Cuba?
Cuban emigrants send products to Cuba to help their families due to the economic crisis and the shortage of basic goods on the island. The prices of many items are unattainable for workers earning in Cuban pesos, making shipments from abroad a necessity for the survival of many families.
What products are common in shipments to Cuba?
Common items in shipments to Cuba include personal hygiene products, non-perishable food, medications, and cleaning products. It is also common to include gifts such as clothing and small appliances, which are hard to find on the island at affordable prices.
How does the dependency on remittances affect the regime in Cuba?
The reliance on shipments from abroad can foster the economic dependency of the island, as the Cuban government fails to meet the basic needs of the population. This highlights the shortcomings of the socialist regime in providing essential goods and creates a dependency on remittances and shipments for daily sustenance.
What are the customs restrictions for shipments to Cuba?
Customs restrictions in Cuba can limit the quantity and type of products that can be sent. Although many products enter without issues, some items may be subject to taxes or prohibitions, which creates uncertainty among those making these shipments.
What impact do social media have on the exchange of information about shipments to Cuba?
Social media plays a crucial role by providing a platform to share experiences and tips about shipping to Cuba. Users share advice on where to shop and which products are most useful, creating a supportive community that maximizes the effectiveness of each shipment.
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