In a scenario of chronic fertilizer shortages, plummeting agricultural yields, and an agro-industrial system on the brink of collapse, Cuban authorities showcase Russian nanosilicon as an almost miraculous solution, despite lacking public studies, proven results under local conditions, and a clear implementation plan.
The product was presented at the José Martí Agroindustrial Grains Company in the municipality of Candelaria, Artemisa, by Dmitry Chernyy, a representative of the Ministry of Agriculture at the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Cuba, reported the official newspaper El artemiseño.
According to the official version, nanosilicon is a liquid fertilizer of mineral origin, composed of biologically active silicon and microelements, whose "positive effects on the stimulation of many plants have a significant impact on their growth and development, and consequently on the yields and quality of the product," it was noted.
But beyond the general statements, no technical evidence, field results, or tests in Cuban soils were provided to support those claims.
During the meeting, farmers and officials received catalogs and samples "on consignment," which was described as a "fruitful" exchange. Some producers expressed "joy and surprise" at having access to a bioproduct that, it was said, could arrive to them via parcel and air transport in small formats and at “affordable prices”.
However, that same strategy reveals a lack of planning: a fertilizer supposedly "environmentally friendly" and intended to boost agricultural yields in Cuba will be imported in hand-held containers, with no logistical structure or supply security.
The urgency for magical solutions stems from an alarming context. Cuban agriculture is experiencing a profound crisis caused by a lack of supplies, the deterioration of infrastructure, ineffective centralization, and the migration of the workforce.
The countryside does not produce enough, state markets are undersupplied, and fertilizer imports have fallen to minimal levels.
In this context, nanosilicon emerges as a new promise. However, instead of committing to a serious redesign of agricultural policies, the government clings to the narrative of "solidarity" and presents a foreign sample as if it were a national plan. There is no data on the actual cost of imports, the long-term environmental impact, or its compatibility with key crops for food security.
The authorities try to disguise poverty as an opportunity: distributing samples and catalogs to producers desperate for a solution, without guaranteeing results, real access, or quality control. The promotion of this Russian bioproduct aligns with the official trend of importing quick fixes, while the structural problems of agriculture remain unresolved.
Thus, while the Cuban fields are cracking due to a lack of nutrients, the solution offered is not productive sovereignty or national science, but a foreign bottle with promises that have yet to take root.
In light of the shortage of fertilizers, the official press has even suggested fertilizing plants with urine as an alternative to chemical fertilizers, and as an “alternative solution” to contribute to the much-desired yet elusive “food sovereignty” that the government is pursuing,
In October 2018, the official newspaper 5 de Septiembre reported on the construction in Cienfuegos of the largest fertilizer factory in the country, a joint venture with a company from India, which would have the capacity to produce 300,000 tons per year and was expected to begin production by the end of that year.
Cuba is experiencing one of the worst food crises in decades, characterized by chronic shortages, a decline in national agricultural production, and a nearly absolute dependence on imports that the country can no longer afford.
The shortage of basic products such as rice, milk, flour, or oil has turned daily nourishment into a constant struggle for millions of Cubans.
Long queues, empty markets, and the disproportionate rise in food prices in the informal sector are part of everyday life for a population that survives on salaries that barely cover a quarter of the basic basket.
The causes of this emergency are multiple: the structural inefficiency of the state agricultural system, the lack of inputs and fuel, the dollarization of many essential products, and the steep decline in national production.
This is compounded by the impact of U.S. embargo sanctions, natural disasters, and the lack of deep and comprehensive reforms in the agricultural system.
On the other hand, the deterioration of the energy crisis has left a trail of losses in crops such as , and is one of the factors contributing to the .
The case of Pinar del Río is a symptomatic example of what is happening at the national level. Recently, the Plenary of the Communist Party of Cuba (PCC) confirmed that the province has more than 19,000 hectares (ha) of idle land, which coexist with empty markets, a population suffering from chronic shortages, and a municipal self-sufficiency that has yet to take off, a diagnosis that is no longer surprising.
Although over 50,000 hectares were delivered in the last two years, this did not result in a significant increase in production, due to bureaucratic obstacles and a lack of real incentives, admitted the delegate of Agriculture in the territory, Yoel Hernández.
Frequently Asked Questions about Russian Nanosilicon and the Agricultural Crisis in Cuba
What is Russian nanosilicon and how is it proposed as a solution for agriculture in Cuba?
Russian nanosilicon is a liquid fertilizer of mineral origin, composed of biologically active silicon and micronutrients, which supposedly stimulates plant growth and enhances their development. Cuban authorities present it as a miracle solution for the agricultural crisis, despite lacking studies or proven results in Cuban soils.
What problems is agriculture currently facing in Cuba?
The Cuban agriculture sector is facing a deep crisis characterized by a lack of inputs, deteriorating infrastructure, and ineffective centralization. Additionally, there is a significant emigration of the workforce, shortages in state markets, and a drastic decline in fertilizer imports.
Why might Russian nanosilicon not be an effective solution for Cuba?
Russian nanosilicon may not be effective because there is no clear implementation plan, nor are there studies that verify its effectiveness under local conditions in Cuba. Furthermore, there are plans to import it in small quantities without a solid logistical structure for its distribution.
How does the current food crisis affect the Cuban population?
The food crisis in Cuba has turned daily meals into a constant struggle for millions of people. The shortage of basic products such as rice, milk, flour, and oil, along with endless queues and prohibitive prices in the informal market, are part of the everyday life of Cubans.
What measures has the Cuban government taken to address the agricultural and food crisis?
The Cuban government has announced several plans and initiatives, such as the recovery of agricultural enterprises and the activation of farming houses. However, these initiatives are hindered by persistent shortages of supplies and a lack of real incentives for producers, raising doubts about their viability.
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