"Did you know that in Cuba, change is given in candy instead of coins? And no, this is not a joke," a Cuban woman stated in a video posted on TikTok, after showing how a state store gave her sweets as change after making a purchase.
The user identified as @ledyhr92 shared her experience in a short clip showing the interior of the establishment, while recounting with an incredulous tone: “You go to a store, buy something, and if there's money left over, instead of giving you coins, they give you a couple of candies, as if that solves anything.”
The images show how the young woman displays the counter and the candies they gave her instead of the coins corresponding to her change.
The scene, which might seem like a joke, reflects a reality familiar to many Cubans: the shortage of small coins and the lack of change in shops on the island.
"Would you accept candy as change in your country?" the TikToker asked her followers, questioning a practice that has become common in Cuban stores, where customers are forced to accept sweets, matches, or other low-value products when coins are unavailable.
The post generated numerous comments, both from Cubans inside and outside the country as well as from foreigners, who expressed their astonishment and indignation at the precarious situation faced by consumers on the island.
The lack of cash change is a persistent problem in Cuba, where the economic crisis and the inefficiency of the monetary system combine to create absurd situations like this.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Shortage of Change in Cuba and the Use of Candies as Currency
Why do stores in Cuba give change in candy?
The lack of small change in Cuba has led state stores to give change in low-value products such as candies. This is due to the scarcity of small denominations in dollars, a situation that reflects the economic crisis and the inefficiency of the monetary system on the island.
How has the Cuban population reacted to the change in candy?
The reaction of Cubans has been one of astonishment and outrage, both on the island and in exile. Many view this practice as a mockery and a disrespect, especially towards those who send remittances with great effort to support their families in Cuba. Social media has been the channel through which this discontent has been expressed, highlighting the widespread dissatisfaction.
What measures has the Cuban government taken regarding the change in candies?
The Cuban government, through its representatives, has defended this practice as the only viable alternative in the absence of fractional currency. They have urged customers to use electronic payment channels as a solution to the issue of change, although this does not resolve the situation for all consumers.
What is the impact of partial dollarization in Cuba?
The partial dollarization of the Cuban economy has created a parallel market that is only accessible to those who receive remittances or have access to foreign currency. This has deepened social inequalities, as a significant portion of the population continues to receive salaries in national currency, which is devalued and not accepted in these stores.
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