The CIMEX Corporation has made the Apk Ticket application mandatory for purchasing fuel in the private sector, while the state sector will also be able to use it on an optional basis.
Behind this measure, supposedly created to prevent long lines at service centers, lies a harsh reality: the scarcity of fuel in Cuba and a new rationing system that limits purchases to just 40 liters per user.
A limited deployment and many doubts
So far, only two service stations in Havana have been enabled to operate with the application: Tángana, in the Plaza de la Revolución municipality; and 5ta y 112, in Playa.
The incorporation of the remaining 44 service stations in the capital is expected in June, although there is no certainty about how the measure will impact the fuel crisis.
The app went live at 12:00 a.m. on March 13, notifying 700 customers to purchase gasoline at the two designated service stations. Among these, 600 users were assigned to 5th and 112 (300 for B90 gasoline and 300 for motor gasoline), while 100 were assigned to Tángana.
CIMEX reiterates the limit of 40 liters and the possibility of losing the turn
The system imposes a maximum limit of 40 liters per purchase, leaving many drivers with no options due to the lack of fuel availability on the island.
Additionally, each user has only 24 hours to make the purchase; otherwise, they lose their right, with no guarantees of obtaining another appointment in the short term.
Officials claim that the app has managed to regulate the queues, but the reality is that in the first hours of operation, out of the 100 slots assigned in Tángana, only two vehicles were able to purchase fuel, highlighting issues with the implementation.
A payment service for receiving notifications
The use of the application was announced last week and incurs a cost for citizens. Those who wish to receive notifications about the arrival of fuel in order to make a purchase must pay a subscription that varies depending on the notice period:
- 12 pesos to receive notifications within 15 days.
- 20 pesos for one month.
- 50 pesos for three months.
While the government tries to justify the measure as a form of "equitable" distribution, citizens are facing a new obstacle in accessing the already scarce fuel, with more restrictions and additional costs.
Frequently Asked Questions about Fuel Rationing in Cuba
What is the Apk Ticket application and why is it mandatory for purchasing fuel in Cuba?
The Apk Ticket application is a system enforced by the CIMEX Corporation to regulate fuel purchases in Cuba, particularly in the private sector. It is mandatory to help control the long lines at service stations and distribute fuel more equitably amid the scarcity crisis affecting the country.
What is the limit on fuel purchases in Cuba, and what happens if the assigned turn is not respected?
The system imposes a maximum purchase limit of 40 liters per user. If the user does not make the purchase within the assigned 24 hours, they lose their turn with no guarantee of obtaining another in the short term. This intensifies pressure on drivers and increases uncertainty in the fuel crisis.
How does the paid subscription in the Apk Ticket app affect citizens?
The paid subscription in the Apk Ticket application is necessary to receive notifications about fuel arrival. This system creates an economic barrier by requiring an additional payment in the midst of an economic crisis, favoring those who can afford to pay for the service over those who lack sufficient resources.
What impact does the dollarization of the energy sector in Cuba have?
The dollarization of the energy sector in Cuba means that certain types of fuels can only be purchased in U.S. dollars. This excludes a large part of the population that does not have access to foreign currency, worsening economic inequality and further limiting access to essential resources such as fuel.
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