A curious informal point of sale, popularly known as "the millionaire's kiosk," has garnered attention in Havana for its wide range of imported products and prices that are quite inaccessible for the average Cuban.
Located on 100th Street, a busy avenue near the Rancho Boyeros airport, this kiosk offers fresh fruits, gourmet products, and refrigerated foods, many of which are imported.
In a video posted on TikTok by the user @ochosi03, a Cuban expresses amazement at the variety of goods he found upon his return to the island.
"Look at what I found leaving the airport on my way home here on 100th Street, a kiosk that at first glance makes you think you’re in the U.S., but no, you’re in Cuba," he commented in the video while showing pineapples, grapes, garlic, olive oils, canned products, and even international beers.
The user, visibly surprised, points out that the products "are of very good quality" and that "most are imported." Among the offerings, a Corona beer served with lemon stood out, priced at 700 Cuban pesos, which is approximately 2 dollars at the current informal exchange rate.
"The millionaires' kiosk" gets its nickname from the prices it charges, which are unattainable for a large part of the Cuban population, whose average monthly salary does not exceed 4,000 pesos.
However, the place attracts those who have access to foreign currency or remittances, and are looking for products that are hard to find in state markets.
The images depict a well-stocked space, with fruits hanging in nets, bottled and refrigerated products, and a board displaying visible prices, which contrasts sharply with the usual shortages found in most agromarkets and stores operating in national currency.
This type of business, which often operates outside of state control or on the fringes of legality, has become increasingly common on the island, especially following the partial opening to self-employment and the informal dollarization of commerce.
Frequently Asked Questions about the "Millionaires' Kiosk" in Havana
What is the "Kiosk of Millionaires" in Havana?
The "Millionaire's Kiosk" is an informal sales point in Havana known for offering imported products at very high prices, which are inaccessible for most Cubans. It is located near the Rancho Boyeros airport and offers a variety of fruits, gourmet products, and refrigerated foods.
Why is the "Millionaires' Kiosk" inaccessible to many Cubans?
The kiosk is considered inaccessible for many Cubans because its prices are extremely high compared to the average salary in Cuba, which does not exceed 4,000 pesos per month. Most products are imported and are prohibitive for those who do not have access to foreign currency or remittances.
How does the "Millionaires' Kiosk" compare to other markets in Cuba?
Unlike most markets in Cuba, which are understocked, the "Millionaires' Kiosk" is well-stocked with imported products. However, the prices are so high that only a small part of the population, who have access to foreign currency, can shop there.
What impact does partial dollarization have in Cuba?
Partial dollarization in Cuba has increased economic inequality in the country, creating a parallel market that is only accessible to those who receive remittances or have access to foreign currency. This is reflected in the opening of stores that only accept payments in dollars, leaving out the majority of the population that receives salaries in Cuban pesos.
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