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The Cuban authorities arrested a man in the province of Artemisa after discovering in his home a large quantity of cigarettes allegedly obtained illegally.
The arrest took place during a police operation in the municipality of San Cristóbal and was announced through the Facebook profile "Angerona de Cuba," associated with the Ministry of the Interior in Artemisa.
According to the publication, the citizen was known in the locality for selling large quantities of Popular blue brand cigarettes, intended for the population under state regulations. Nearby residents commented that there was frequent movement of goods at his home, which raised suspicions among the neighbors and the authorities.
During the operation, a considerable amount of undocumented cigars was seized, and the detainee was taken to a police unit to continue the investigations.
In addition to the packs of cigarettes, the images circulated on social media show several cardboard boxes filled with the product and a bag containing large bundles of bills of various denominations, suggesting that illegal sales generated substantial income.
According to "Angerona de Cuba," there will be a deeper exploration into those involved in the fate of cigars, which currently hold a high value in the illicit market.
The operation takes place within a context of shortages and rising prices of cigarettes in Cuba.
Recent data from the National Office of Statistics and Information of Cuba (ONEI) has revealed that, in February, the monthly variation of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) was 2.75%, with the category of "Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco" being the most affected.
In particular, the price of strong cigars increased by 58.72%, reflecting the impact of the crisis and speculation in the market.
According to the data published by ONEI, the price of this product varies considerably in the provincial capitals of Cuba, reaching highs of up to 1,100 pesos in Camagüey, 1,000 pesos in Havana, Santa Clara, and Las Tunas, and lows of 300 to 700 pesos in other regions of the country.
Additionally, recent reports have indicated that national production is facing distribution issues and a shortage of raw materials, while the illegal market takes advantage of this situation to sell at exorbitant prices.
Furthermore, the shortage of locally produced cigars has been the subject of criticism at a time when the state-owned company Tabacuba celebrates achievements in tobacco export, while the population faces challenges in acquiring these products from the state retail network.
The tobacco crisis in Cuba is worsening due to the priority the government gives to the export of high-end products, the island's main commercial commodity.
Meanwhile, cigars intended for popular consumption are scarce in the domestic market, leading to speculation and increasing the population's dependence on illegal trade.
According to experts, the government's strategy aims to attract foreign currency at the expense of Cubans' access to this product.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Illegal Cigarette Trade and the Tobacco Crisis in Cuba
Why was the man arrested in Artemisa?
The man in Artemisa was arrested for possession of a large quantity of cigars allegedly obtained illegally. The police found these cigars during an operation at his home. The arrested individual was known in the area for selling Popular blue brand cigars without the required legal documentation.
How does the shortage of cigarettes affect the Cuban population?
The scarcity of cigarettes in Cuba has led to a significant increase in their prices, making smoking an unattainable luxury for many. The economic crisis has heightened dependence on the black market, where prices are exorbitant due to the lack of supply in state establishments.
What impact does tobacco production have on the Cuban economy?
Tobacco is Cuba's primary export commodity and generates significant foreign currency income. However, this export priority affects domestic supply, exacerbating the shortage of cigars for the local population, which in turn encourages the illegal market.
Why is the black market for cigarettes so prominent in Cuba?
The black market for cigars in Cuba is prominent due to the scarcity and high prices in the official market. Deficiencies in distribution and a lack of raw materials have limited the availability of cigars in state stores, forcing consumers to turn to the informal market.
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