Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel justified this Thursday the controversial dollarized rates imposed by ETECSA and pointed out that "there are 2.5 billion people in the world without access to the internet or mobile telephony."
“It is not to please, but we are ensuring a minimum package, an essential package accessible to everyone,” the leader stated during the presidential podcast From the Presidency, broadcast by official media, where he again downplayed the real impact of the so-called “rate hike” on the Cuban population.
"The level of internet penetration in Cuba is above the global average," added the Deputy Minister of Communications, Ernesto Rodríguez Hernández, who was invited to the discussion.
Díaz-Canel's words come amid a context of high social tension, characterized by student protests, constant blackouts, and a deep digital exclusion.
The comments were widely interpreted as a strategy to downplay the seriousness of the rate hikes implemented by the Telecommunications Company of Cuba S.A. (ETECSA), which has been labeled as “abusive” even by some official sectors.
The new rates for mobile data access exceed 11,000 CUP, more than double the minimum wage, while top-ups in the national currency are limited to just 360 CUP per month.
In contrast, dollar packages are actively promoted by ETECSA, available only with foreign cards or through the MiTransfer wallet, a model that widens the digital divide and excludes the most vulnerable sectors.
During the same television segment, Tania Velázquez, president of ETECSA, warned of a possible "collapse" of the national telecommunications system, a statement that many interpret as part of a narrative crafted to retroactively justify unpopular measures.
"Certain issues have arisen that could lead us to a widespread failure. This would mean that we would not be able to make calls, send messages, or access work or school," Velázquez stated.
Following ETECSA's measures, students at the University of Havana called for an indefinite academic strike in protest of the new rates, accusing the FEU (Federación Estudiantil Universitaria) of acting as a spokesperson for the government instead of defending the interests of the student body.
Although the leader acknowledged "the criticisms and dissatisfaction of the people," he did not offer any concrete solutions and avoided committing to reviewing the rates.
Frequently Asked Questions about the ETECSA Rate Increase in Cuba
Why did ETECSA increase the rates for internet and telephone access in Cuba?
ETCSA justified the increase in rates due to the need to inject foreign currency into a debt-ridden and technologically lagging company. The president of ETECSA, Tania Velázquez, stated that the rate hike is necessary to maintain existing services and prevent a collapse of the telecommunications system on the island.
What are the new rates imposed by ETECSA and how do they affect the Cuban population?
The new rates for mobile data access exceed 11,000 CUP, more than double the minimum wage in Cuba. Top-ups in national currency are limited to 360 CUP per month, while packages in dollars are promoted that can only be accessed with foreign cards or via MiTransfer Wallet. This has sparked criticism for perpetuating inequality and limiting access for more vulnerable sectors.
What has the Cuban government said about the protests against ETECSA's rates?
The Cuban government has described the measures as "painful but temporary," and has called for citizens' understanding. President Díaz-Canel and other officials have justified the rate hike as a necessary step to prevent a technological collapse and improve service quality in the long run. However, no concrete solutions have been offered in response to citizen criticisms and protests.
How have Cuban students reacted to ETECSA's price hike?
The students of the University of Havana have called for an indefinite academic strike in protest against the new fees. They accuse the University Student Federation (FEU) of acting as a spokesperson for the government instead of defending the interests of the student body. They demand not only equitable connectivity for students but also real access for all Cubans.
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