A video published by the Cuban creator “El Henry” (@itss_henryyy_) has sparked a wave of reactions by humorously and ironically showcasing what can be purchased in Cuba with a minimum salary of approximately 2,100 Cuban pesos (equivalent to about 6 or 7 dollars at the informal exchange rate).
"Let's see what I can buy with a Cuban's minimum wage," he says at the beginning of the clip, in which he is seen visiting several kiosks and making modest purchases. The tour concludes with the purchase of basic products such as a bottle of tomato puree, oil, seasoning, salt, instant soda, chili pepper, and two cheese pizzas, which together exceed the available amount.
Despite the humorous tone of the video —which includes phrases like “more acidic than your mother-in-law” in reference to the tomato puree— the underlying message is clear: the minimum wage is not enough to cover even a basic purchase in Cuba.
"I had to contribute a little more for the pizzas because it wasn't enough," the young man confesses at the end of the clip, revealing that even by giving up on more essential items, the money still falls short.
Reactions: between bitter laughter and indignation
The video, which has garnered thousands of views and comments, has been widely shared by users both inside and outside of Cuba. "People are not living in Cuba; they are surviving," commented one user. Another stated, "With my grandmother's pension, I can only buy a pizza and a bottle of oil."
Cubans abroad reported having shown the video to their colleagues in countries like Romania and the Dominican Republic, where many were taken aback by the extent of the crisis.
There were also comments that reflect nostalgia and pain: “I laugh a lot with you, but it's heartbreaking what's happening in Cuba,” wrote one user, while another summarized, “Buying food in Cuba has become a luxury, not a necessity.”
A sadly shared reality
This video joins a series of viral content where Cubans reveal what they can buy with their income. Just a few days ago, a Cuban teacher showed that her salary—reduced to 8 dollars a month during her maternity leave—barely covered essential products and she could not afford a 1,000 peso toy for her child.
The case of a lawyer whose monthly salary of 4,700 CUP (about 14 dollars) was spent in a single grocery purchase, without covering the entire month, also went viral.
For his part, Cuban economist Omar Everleny Pérez Villanueva calculated that the monthly cost of food for two people in Havana is around 24,351 pesos, which is 12 times more than the minimum wage.
An unsustainable reality
While inflation continues unabated and purchasing power collapses, social media has become a platform to highlight the daily crisis that most Cubans are experiencing. Through humor, satire, or direct denunciation, more and more citizens are using their voices to reveal what was previously only hinted at in numbers: in Cuba, working for the State does not even guarantee daily food.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Economic Crisis in Cuba
What can you buy with the minimum wage in Cuba?
With a minimum salary in Cuba, which is approximately 2,100 Cuban pesos or 6 to 7 dollars on the informal exchange, only basic products can barely be purchased. In a viral video, a Cuban creator demonstrated that when trying to buy essential items like tomato puree, oil, and pizzas, he had to spend more than his salary allowed.
How does inflation affect the cost of living in Cuba?
Inflation in Cuba has skyrocketed the cost of living, making the prices of food and essential products unreachable for most Cubans. According to economist Omar Everleny Pérez Villanueva, the monthly cost to feed two people in Havana is about 12 times higher than the minimum wage.
How have Cubans reacted to the economic crisis on social media?
Cubans have used social media to highlight the economic crisis through videos that illustrate the inability to meet basic needs with their salaries. This content has gone viral, generating reactions of outrage and solidarity both inside and outside the island.
What measures has the Cuban government taken to address the economic crisis?
The Cuban government has attempted to implement measures such as the opening of dollar stores and the increase of salaries in sectors like health and education, but these solutions have not been sufficient. Inflation and the devaluation of the Cuban peso continue to severely impact the purchasing power of the population.
How does Cuba's economic situation compare to other countries in the region?
Compared to other countries in the region, the economic situation in Cuba is critical, with extremely low wages that do not meet basic needs. In countries like Venezuela and the Dominican Republic, although they also face challenges, some wages are comparatively less inadequate.
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