A recent video shared on TikTok by the Cuban user @kary_y_jony showcased the disheartening state of the Carlos III shopping mall, one of the most well-known in Havana. In the 40-second recording, the young woman tours part of the establishment, where empty spaces, closed shops, and a limited selection of products can be seen.
"That's how the largest shopping mall in Cuba looks today," she said while sharing the post, which shows a store with virtually empty shelves and poor lighting. The user recalls that a few years ago, Carlos III started selling in freely convertible currency (MLC), a virtual currency that does not match the salaries in pesos that most Cuban workers receive.
During her testimony, the content creator points out that the store is "completely out of stock," that the few available items are repetitive, and that essential products are not to be found. She also mentions that several departments are closed or under renovation. Finally, she speculates about the future of the center: "it seems that this store will soon sell in dollars or in the so-called classic cards."
This type of social media post has become common due to the worsening conditions of sales in state stores. In mid-February, another video shared by the user @zol.arias showed a similar situation in the same shopping center: empty shelves, facilities in poor condition, and long lines to buy eggs in MLC.
On that occasion, a carton of eggs cost 6 MLC, which was equivalent to about 1,800 CUP, while in the informal market the price could exceed 2,600 CUP. The purchasing process included submitting the identity card and long hours of waiting, as noted by the young woman.
Both publications have generated reactions of indignation, nostalgia, and frustration among internet users, who remember when Carlos III was a bustling and well-stocked area, offering a variety of entertainment and shopping options.
The situation described in these testimonies is not isolated. Cuba is experiencing a deep economic crisis that is reflected in the scarcity of food and basic goods, rising prices, and the deterioration of the MLC commercial system, which many Cubans cannot access because they do not receive remittances or do not have cards enabled for these transactions.
Although authorities have promised improvements in product distribution, daily reality is still characterized by endless lines, empty shelves, and prices beyond the reach of a significant portion of the population. Testimonials on social media have become a means to document and share the experiences of ordinary Cubans.
Frequently Asked Questions about the shortages at the Carlos III shopping center and the economic situation in Cuba
What is the current situation of the Carlos III shopping center in Havana?
The Carlos III shopping center is practically out of stock, with empty shelves and poor lighting. Many stores are closed or under renovation, and the few available products are repetitive and do not include essential items.
What is the Free Convertible Currency (MLC) and how does it affect Cubans?
The MLC is a virtual currency used in Cuba for purchasing products in certain stores, but most Cubans do not have access to it because their salaries are in Cuban pesos. This has created market segmentation that limits access to basic products for many residents.
What is the relationship between dollar stores and the economic crisis in Cuba?
The opening of stores that only accept dollars has exacerbated inequality in access to consumer goods. These stores are well stocked, but prices are high and the majority of Cubans, who receive their salaries in pesos, cannot afford them. This reflects the increasing dollarization of the Cuban economy.
How has the Cuban population reacted to the situation of the MLC stores and those in dollars?
The population has expressed their indignation and frustration on social media, questioning the economic system that leaves many without access to basic products. The criticism focuses on the inequality created by these stores and the lack of access to foreign currencies for the majority of citizens.
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