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The exports of chicken meat from the United States to Cuba increased by 21% in value and 27.6% in tons during January 2025, compared to December 2024, highlighted economist Pedro Monreal in a thread on X.
Monreal cites a report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture stating that chicken exports from the U.S. to Cuba have established themselves as the primary source of meat protein on the island.
Despite the monthly fluctuations, chicken remains the most accessible source of animal protein for Cubans.
In January 2025, the average value of chicken exported from the U.S. was $1.28 per kilogram, slightly lower than the value of $1.35 per kilogram recorded in December 2024.
Monreal also highlighted that, although the Cuban government remains a key player in the importation of chicken, there is an increase in purchases of this product by micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MIPYMES) on the island, reflecting a shift in the dynamics of foreign trade.
This phenomenon is also observed in the context of the introduction of dollar stores in Cuba since January of this year, which has diversified distribution channels.
The economist noted that the figures from the U.S. Department of Agriculture include all chicken meat exports to Cuba, regardless of whether they are contracted for marketing by state entities, cooperatives, or the recently emerging MIPYMES.
These companies have empowered themselves to the point that in November of last year, the Cuban small and medium-sized enterprise Danaus SRL achieved a judicial victory in a Florida court against the American company Overseas of the Americas Corp., following a lawsuit related to the breach of a contract for the purchase of frozen chicken worth $84,000.
The increase in chicken exports highlights not only Cuba's dependence on external food supplies but also the transformations in internal economic policies that are allowing small businesses to participate more actively in the importation of key food products.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Increase in U.S. Chicken Exports to Cuba
Why have U.S. chicken exports to Cuba increased?
U.S. chicken exports to Cuba increased by 21% in value and 27.6% in tonnage in January 2025 compared to December 2024. This increase reflects Cuba's dependence on external food supplies due to the agricultural crisis the country is facing. Additionally, the introduction of dollar stores has diversified distribution channels on the island.
How do Cuban MSMEs affect the chicken trade?
MISSMEs in Cuba are increasing their participation in the import of products like chicken, reflecting a shift in the dynamics of the country's foreign trade. This is due to new economic policies that allow these small businesses to actively engage in the import of essential food products, despite the restrictions imposed by the government.
What is the impact of chicken prices in Cuba?
In January 2025, the average value of chicken exported from the U.S. to Cuba was $1.28 per kilogram, slightly lower than the value of $1.35 per kilogram recorded in December 2024. Despite this slight decrease, the price of chicken remains a critical issue, as shortages and inflation on the island increase pressure on Cuban consumers.
How does the economic situation in Cuba affect the availability of chicken?
The agricultural and economic crisis in Cuba has led to an increased dependence on chicken imports from the United States. The lack of local agricultural production and government restrictions have worsened the shortage of this staple food on the island, increasing food insecurity and difficulties in obtaining essential products.
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