The Cuban Prime Minister, Manuel Marrero Cruz, criticized the disorganization in the non-state sector, the exorbitant prices, and the lack of control in government management during a monthly meeting with the governors and the mayor of the special municipality Isla de la Juventud.
Marrero, in a statement broadcast by the official media Canal Caribe, focused much of his speech on the call to “reorganize” the relationship with non-state economic actors, considering that the measures taken to expand them “cannot go against the people”.
“We need to take care of reviewing that relationship: what is being contracted?, what is being paid?, what service do we need from the non-state sector?”, questioned the official, without providing concrete data or self-criticism regarding the role of the State in the widespread precariousness.
The head of government defended the "comprehensiveness" of the so-called government program, an initiative promoted by the regime as a solution to address the increasing social demands amidst shortages, inflation, and massive exodus. According to state-run media, the plan includes more than 200 actions grouped into 11 strategic axes, but so far it has not yielded visible results for the citizens.
“We must make progress on its solution in order to reduce the problems and the impacts that our population is facing today,” affirmed Marrero, without mentioning the inability of the state apparatus to control the market, stimulate production, or guarantee basic services.
One of the most tense moments of the speech was his warning against resellers and private traders who offer products at prices he considers excessive. Marrero denounced, for example, that in some areas, a liter of oil reaches 1,500 pesos, and issued a direct threat: “And if they hide the oil, we will go back to that warehouse house. And in that case, it’s not a fine, it’s not forced sale, it’s confiscation”.
The Prime Minister also insisted that the price caps “must be respected” and held local governments accountable for not taking more stringent action. “These things shouldn’t wait for someone at the municipal level to say them”, he claimed, in a speech that leaves little room for legality, transparency, or respect for the rights of private workers.
Despite the scrutinizing and punitive tone of his speech, Marrero avoided acknowledging the failure of centralized policies and the current economic model. Instead of taking responsibility, he focused on pointing fingers at others and promising generic solutions.
Regarding the housing crisis, another topic addressed, the prime minister merely stated that "we need to explore the alternatives to solve, tackle, or mitigate such a complex problem with a social impact as significant as that of housing", without providing any concrete information about new construction plans or funding.
Marrero's statements come in a context where the Cuban government has intensified its offensive against the private sector, blaming it for inflation and scarcity.
In February, a document signed by the Prime Minister was leaked authorizing members of the Communist Party to inspect large private businesses for "familiarity" with state-owned companies and fraud in contracting and payments. This measure has been seen as a new attack by the regime against private businesses in Cuba.
Additionally, the government has announced new economic measures to "correct distortions" and "revitalize the economy" in 2025, which include updating electricity rates, controlling prices of basic food items, and using prepaid cards for fuel. However, these actions have been criticized for their lack of details and for repeating old promises without real changes, leading to skepticism among the population.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Economic and Social Situation in Cuba
What measures has the Cuban government taken to control rising prices?
The Cuban government has chosen punitive measures such as the confiscation of products from self-employed individuals who offer prices deemed excessive, in addition to demanding that local governments act more harshly in price control. However, these actions have been criticized for failing to address the structural causes of inflation and scarcity.
What is the Cuban government's stance on the participation of the private sector in the economy?
The Cuban government has intensified its offensive against the private sector, holding it responsible for inflation and shortages. Recent measures include the inspection of large private businesses and the reorganization of trade to further integrate the state sector, making it more difficult for micro, small, and medium enterprises (mipymes) and other non-state economic actors to operate.
How does the current economic crisis affect the daily lives of Cubans?
The economic crisis in Cuba has resulted in high inflation, scarcity of food, and basic goods. This has led to widespread economic precariousness, where most families are unable to access essential products due to high prices and a lack of supply in the state market.
What criticisms have been made against the economic policies of the Cuban government?
The economic policies of the Cuban government have been criticized for their lack of effectiveness and for not addressing the root causes of the crisis, such as economic centralization and state inefficiency. Despite promises to revitalize the economy, the results have not translated into improvements for the population, which continues to face serious economic hardships.
Filed under:
