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In a context where the regime has acknowledged its inability to supply pharmacieswith medications, and the only option the population has to access these medicines is the informal market, the government continues its repressive policy against those who trade these products.
The MININT allied profile, Ransel Londres, reported on Facebook about the capture of a young man on Monte Street in Old Havana, who was found selling controlled medications, although he omitted information regarding the origin of those drugs.
According to the publication, "confrontation forces" participated in the operation, confiscating a significant quantity of drugs, including Amoxicillin, Enalapril, Ciprofloxacin, Loratadine, Paracetamol, Metronidazole, Permethrin, Clotrimazole, Nystatin, Globetazol, and Hydrocortisone.
The official profile emphasized that "there can be no leniency with the illegal sale of medications"; however, it made no mention of the deep crisis the population faces in accessing pharmaceuticals.
The trade in medications in the informal market has become a means of survival for both sellers and patients, in light of the chronic shortages affecting state pharmacies.
However, instead of providing solutions for the supply shortages, the government focuses its efforts on targeting those who fill that void, because not all medications originate from pharmacies and hospitals; many are imported.
In January, the Cuban regime announced a new extension of the tariff exemption for travelers arriving from abroad who import food, hygiene products, medications, and medical supplies for non-commercial purposes.
Resolution 26 of 2025 from the Minister of Finance and Prices (MFP), published in the extraordinary edition number 2 of the Official Gazette, extends the benefit until April 30 of this year.
In February, a joint operation between the Ministry of Interior (MININT) and the Security and Protection Corps of the Arnaldo Milián Castro Hospital in Santa Clara, Villa Clara, resulted in the arrest of an assistant from the geriatrics ward of that hospital.
The individual, whose name has not been revealed for "legal reasons," was caught in possession of medications and medical supplies that were illegally obtained for the purpose of sale.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Illegal Sale of Medications in Cuba
Why is there so much illegal drug sales in Cuba?
The illegal sale of medication in Cuba is primarily due to the severe shortage of drugs faced by state pharmacies. This situation forces the population to turn to the informal market to obtain essential medications, as the official system fails to adequately supply the citizens.
How does the Cuban government respond to the illegal sale of medications?
The Cuban government responds with repression and police operations against those participating in the illegal sale of medications. However, this policy does not address the underlying causes of the shortage nor provide solutions to the lack of supply in state pharmacies, perpetuating the issue.
What types of medications are sold in the informal market in Cuba?
The informal market in Cuba sells various types of medications, including antibiotics, pain relievers, antiparasitics, and medicines for chronic diseases. These products are essential for the population, which cannot access them through official channels due to chronic shortages.
What is the impact of the shortage of medications on the Cuban population?
The shortage of medications in Cuba has a serious impact on the health of the population, leading to complications in treatable diseases and increasing cases of preventable deaths. The lack of basic supplies forces many to rely on donations from abroad or the black market, particularly affecting those with chronic illnesses and those requiring urgent treatments.
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