A viral video posted on TikTok by user @machy_x5 has created a stir among Cubans both on the island and abroad, showcasing a modern car fair held in Camagüey, where, according to the video's creator, 11 vehicles were sold for cash totaling over 650 thousand dollars.
The clip, which has already accumulated over 177,000 views, showcases a bustling open space with dozens of recent vehicles—among them models from Toyota, Ford, Hyundai, and Kia—lined up like in an outdoor showroom. According to the author, this fair takes place every Friday, and it is not the first time he has documented it: other similar videos recorded on different dates can be found on his profile.
The post, as expected, has generated an avalanche of reactions. Some users celebrated the scene as a sign of progress: “Congratulations to those who can, because life is only one,” commented a follower. But many others expressed skepticism or annoyance at what they see as a mockery of the reality for most in Cuba. “Where is the blockade?” wrote one. Another was more direct: “That’s not success, it’s a need to pretend.” The criticism highlights the contrast between this display of wealth and the living conditions of the majority of Cubans, who face blackouts, shortages, and a state salary that does not exceed 20 dollars per month.
Far from ignoring the controversy, @machy_x5 responded firmly. He assured that in that space there will be no "speculation", but rather real business. "Cars are bought and sold," he wrote, and reiterated that sales of over 650 thousand dollars in cash were closed that day.
He also denied that the participants rely on money sent from abroad. According to him, he was the only one present who lives in the United States, while the others "have never set foot in the U.S. and have 20 or 30 times more money" than those who criticize from overseas. "None of the people who were there besides me live in the U.S., and they have more money than all of you, and they lead a better life than you," he stated in one of his responses to criticism.
The images, which could easily be mistaken for a car fair in another developed country, once again highlight the internal inequalities in Cuba, where very disparate realities coexist. While some manage to get around in modern cars, others struggle to provide even one meal a day.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Modern Car Fair in Cuba
How much money was raised at the Camagüey car fair?
According to the person who uploaded the video, at the modern car fair held in Camagüey, 11 vehicles were sold for cash totaling over 650 thousand dollars. This event has caused a stir due to the contrast it represents against the economic reality of most Cubans.
What car brands were showcased at the Camagüey fair?
In the Camagüey car fair, models from brands like Toyota, Ford, Hyundai, and Kia were showcased. The presence of these modern vehicles has sparked both admiration and criticism due to the country's economic situation.
How has the Cuban population reacted to the car fair in Camagüey?
The car fair in Camagüey has sparked a strong controversy on social media. While some Cubans celebrate the event as a symbol of progress, many others criticize it for being a mockery of the economic reality faced by the majority, which includes power outages, shortages, and low wages.
Where do the luxury cars seen in Cuba come from?
Luxury cars in Cuba generally arrive through imports from the United States, using legal channels via small and medium-sized enterprises or authorized importers. However, the presence of these vehicles continues to spark debate due to the contrast with the widespread economic hardship on the island.
What impact does partial dollarization have in Cuba?
The partial dollarization in Cuba, which includes the opening of stores that operate exclusively in dollars, has deepened economic inequality by creating a parallel market only accessible to those who receive remittances or foreign currency. This has generated a perception of injustice and economic segmentation, affecting those who are paid in Cuban pesos.
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