A video posted by content creator Azúcar de Cuba (@www.tiktok.com.azucar) has caused a real stir on social media by showcasing a farmers' market on the outskirts of Havana that looks like it's from another country.
The images shared on their TikTok account show agricultural products and imported food from the United States in an unusual amount and variety for the Cuban reality.
Among the items featured in the video are avocados, large garlic, onions, peppers, tomatoes, lemons, apples, melon, mamey, various types of beans, jams, both smoked and fresh meats, beverages, and other foods, many of which come from the U.S. market.
According to the TikToker, all of this was found "by chance" while walking through a peripheral area of the Cuban capital.
"I don't need to post a video that isn't from Cuba."
The reaction from users on social media was immediate. Many questioned the authenticity of the video, suggesting that it was not filmed in Cuba. This flood of comments prompted the content creator to record a second post, in which she firmly addressed the skeptics.
"First, I didn't put the address because I don't know it exactly. I've had to make this video to explain how to get there because I stumbled upon it completely by chance," he said.
"Number two, if you haven't been to Cuba in years, don't call someone who lives here a liar. I have no need to post a video that isn’t from Cuba. Stop the foolishness and open your eyes. Stop the nonsense; there is everything here in Cuba, but it’s very expensive," he added with evident annoyance.
Regarding the management of the private food sales business, the influencer specified: "That's going up 114, after you pass CUJAE, cross Avenida Rancho Boyeros, take the central highway, and a kilometer further on you'll run into it there, it's visible from the street."
The luxury of dining is only for some Cubans
Although the variety of products surprised many, the prices sparked another wave of criticism. Azúcar de Cuba made it clear that these foods are available "for people who have money," but they are out of reach for the majority of Cuban workers.
The images reflect a Cuba of contrasts, where abundance and extreme scarcity coexist. While some can afford to buy imported food at exorbitant prices, the majority barely manages to put a piece of bread on the table.
This reality only highlights the failure of the regime's economic policies, which have only succeeded in deepening the divide between those with access to foreign currency and those surviving on state salaries in Cuban pesos.
In today's Cuba, as the creator herself pointed out, "there is everything... except money".
Frequently asked questions about the agromarket in Havana and the economic situation in Cuba
Where is the farmers' market with U.S. products in Havana?
The agromarket is located on the central highway, going up 114, after passing CUJAE, crossing Rancho Bolleros Avenue, and one kilometer further. This market has generated great interest due to the variety of American products it offers, which is unusual in the Cuban reality.
Why did the video of the agromarket in Havana generate controversy on social media?
The video generated controversy because many users questioned its authenticity, insinuating that it was not filmed in Cuba. The content creator defended its authenticity, stating that the products were found in a farmer's market on the outskirts of Havana. Additionally, the presence of imported products from the U.S. in Cuba surprised many, given the usual scarcity on the island.
Who can shop at the agromarket in Havana for products from the U.S.?
Products are available for those who have money, but they are inaccessible to most Cuban workers, who survive on low salaries paid in Cuban pesos. This highlights the economic inequality in Cuba, where the majority cannot access these imported goods.
How is Cuba's economic situation reflected on social media?
Through platforms like TikTok, many Cubans share their daily experiences, highlighting the scarcity and high cost of basic products. Videos from content creators like Azúcar de Cuba and others reflect the disparity between those who have access to foreign currency and those who only have Cuban pesos.
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