The Agroforestry Company of Pinar del Río has announced a increase in its exports of charcoal, with a target of 250 tons for the year 2025, as part of a recently approved national financing scheme in dollars.
However, the announcement has sparked a wave of criticism and citizen demands regarding the scarcity of the product in the national market and its high prices, amid an unprecedented fuel crisis.
According to what was explained to Radio Guamá, the director of the entity in Vuelta Abajo, Ledoán Menéndez Cardentey, stated that the reactivation of production is the result of a stimulus plan that allocates 54% of the income to the producer and 30% to the state budget.
This new model aims to motivate production through payments in foreign currency, following a critical 2024 in which only two containers (36 tons) were exported due to the energy crisis, logistical restrictions, and issues with shipping companies.
Although a total production of 300 tons was approved, only 50 will be allocated to the domestic market and consumers have expressed their dissatisfaction.
On social media, messages like: “Where are they distributing it to the people?”, “1800 pesos for a bag of charcoal lol and you are exporting”.
"Now I understand the witch hunt against the farmers so that they don't make ovens," said an internet user, reflecting frustration over the lack of local access to charcoal. "Don't export it, first be able to satisfy the needs of the product in the community," replied another.
During 2024, approximately 400 tons that were originally intended for export had to be sold in the provincial capital to confront the energy crisis, Menéndez explained.
Despite this, there is currently a report of a reactivation of state brigades and the presence of coal at local fairs as an indication of recovery in the sector.
Nevertheless, citizens insist that the State prioritize coverage of the basic needs of the population before favoring export contracts.
The scarcity of domestic energy sources, the high price of coal bags in local currency, and the difficulties in obtaining them are fueling discontent in an economy already strained by inflation and widespread shortages.
Frequently Asked Questions about Coal Exportation in Cuba and Its Impact on the People
Why does the Cuban government continue to export coal despite the internal scarcity?
The Cuban government prioritizes the export of coal to obtain foreign currency that is necessary to finance other sectors of the economy. Despite the energy crisis facing the country, the authorities have decided to maintain this export scheme to generate income in dollars, allocating a significant portion of that income to the state budget.
What percentage of coal production is allocated to the domestic market in Cuba?
Of the 300 tons of coal planned for 2025, only 50 tons are intended for the domestic market. This amount is insufficient to meet internal demand, especially in a context where coal has become a basic necessity due to the lack of other energy sources.
What is the price of coal in Cuba and why is it so high?
The price of coal in Cuba has reached unattainable figures for many families, exceeding 1,000 Cuban pesos per bag. This high cost is due to the scarcity of the product in the national market and the difficulties of production and distribution, in a context of inflation and widespread shortages.
What alternatives does the Cuban population have in the face of the scarcity of coal and other energy sources?
Amid the coal shortage and the energy crisis, Cubans have turned to using wood, doors, and windows as fuel. The government has implemented the production of charcoal briquettes as a temporary solution, but these have not been sufficient to meet the demand. The lack of long-term solutions remains a critical challenge for the population.
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