A young Cuban and his mother visited the dollar supermarket at 3rd and 70 in Havana for the first time, and they were surprised both by the variety of products and the high prices.
In a video shared on TikTok, the user @johnfashion_official documented his experience at the store, showcasing well-stocked shelves with products that are often scarce in other shops on the island.
During the tour, the young man expressed his amazement at the variety of goods available, exclaiming, “And we don’t have a peso. Oh, it makes me cringe. The price of the ham scared me; I almost had a heart attack.”
Despite the wide variety available, both he and his mother felt that the prices were excessively high, making it difficult for most Cubans to access these products.
The supermarket at 3rd and 70 has been the subject of controversy since its opening, as it only accepts cash payments in dollars or through international cards, excluding the freely convertible currency (MLC) used in other stores in the country.
This policy has generated criticism because the majority of the population receives their salaries in Cuban pesos, limiting their ability to purchase products at this establishment.
Furthermore, the prices of certain items far exceed the average monthly salary in Cuba. For instance, a 500-gram panettone is sold for $15.20, an amount that is unattainable for many.
The opening of this supermarket reflects the increasing dollarization of the Cuban economy and the inequality in access to consumer goods, generating debates about equity and social justice in the country.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Dollar Supermarket at 3rd and 70 in Havana
Why is the supermarket at 3rd and 70 in Havana controversial?
The supermarket is controversial because it only accepts payments in dollars, which excludes most Cubans who receive their salaries in Cuban pesos. This situation reflects the growing economic inequality in the country and the dollarization of the Cuban economy.
How does the dollarization of the Cuban economy affect the population?
The dollarization of the Cuban economy affects the population by limiting access to essential products for those who do not have access to foreign currency. This has created a parallel market where remittances from abroad become crucial for survival, exacerbating social and economic inequality.
What are the prices of some products at the supermarket on 3rd and 70?
In the supermarket at 3rd and 70th, prices are high and exceed the average monthly salary in Cuba. For example, a 500-gram panettone costs 15.20 dollars, and a bottle of Ron Isla del Tesoro is sold for 779 dollars, making it unattainable for many Cubans.
What impact has the opening of the supermarket had on the informal currency market in Cuba?
The opening of the supermarket at 3rd and 70 has increased the demand for dollars in the informal currency market, leading to a rise in the exchange rates for the dollar and the euro, affecting the purchasing power of remittances and further complicating access to foreign currencies for Cubans.
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