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The Ministry of Labor and Social Security (MTSS) clarified on Wednesday that there will be no changes to the retirement age in Cuba, set at 60 years for women and 65 for men, as established by Law 105 on Social Security. The statement addresses "misinterpretations" that have circulated on social media regarding a possible increase in the retirement age.
The statement, released on the social media platform X, seeks to quell the concerns of thousands of Cuban workers amidst an economic reality that particularly harshly impacts retirees, many of whom survive on pensions that are insufficient to cover even their basic needs.
Rumors with a story
In 2019, the then Minister of Labor, Margarita González, publicly raised the need to review the retirement age due to the aging population and the shortage of labor.
With an increasingly aging population, more than 20% of Cubans are over 60 years old, and a plummeting birth rate, the prospect of raising the retirement age has hovered over the working lives of Cubans like a silent threat.
This is compounded by the massive exodus of young people, the decline of the active population, and an economy that fails to generate quality jobs or sustainable incomes to support the pension system.
Pensions are increasing, but it's not enough
The ratification of the retirement age comes just weeks after Prime Minister Manuel Marrero announced a partial increase in pensions starting in September, aimed at those receiving up to 4,000 pesos per month. The measure will benefit over 1.3 million retirees, which represents 79% of the total.
Although the government presented it as a relief, experts such as economist Pedro Monreal have warned that the purchasing power of this increase will quickly be absorbed by inflation, unless there is a parallel increase in the supply of goods and services. In his words, “without an equivalent growth in the supply of goods, the purchasing power of the increase will erode rapidly.”
The minimum pension will increase from 2,472 to 4,000 pesos in many cases, but analysts agree that, in the current context, this amount does not even cover the most basic necessities: food, medicine, electricity, transportation.
Reform on the horizon?
Meanwhile, the MTSS is promoting a reform of the Labor Code that will be debated nationwide between September and November, as reported by the Canal Caribe. This process, described as the "most important of the labor movement in 2025," aims to update the rights and responsibilities of Cuban workers. While it is emphasized that it will not affect the retirement age, doubts remain, especially among those who no longer trust official announcements.
For many retirees, retirement does not signify rest, but rather the beginning of a new struggle for survival in a country where prices rise every day and incomes barely budge. With their worn bodies and a pension that falls short, continuing to work has become an obligation, not a choice.
In a country where people live "day by day" and the future is seen as a constant concern, the ratification of the retirement age may offer a momentary respite, but it does not alleviate the daily anguish of those who devoted their lives to work and today cannot even afford bread for breakfast.
Frequently Asked Questions About Retirement in Cuba and Pension Increases
What is the current retirement age in Cuba?
The retirement age in Cuba remains at 60 years for women and 65 for men, as established by Law 105 of Social Security. There will be no changes to these limits, despite recent rumors about a possible increase.
What does the recent increase in pensions in Cuba involve?
The pension increase announced by the Cuban government will benefit retirees who receive up to 4,000 pesos monthly. The minimum pension will rise from 1,528 to 3,056 pesos, but this increase may be inadequate due to the high inflation in the country.
How does inflation affect the increase of pensions in Cuba?
The increase in pensions in Cuba could be quickly absorbed by inflation, limiting its real impact on the lives of retirees. Without a corresponding increase in the supply of goods and services, the purchasing power of pensioners will continue to erode.
What challenges does the pension system in Cuba face?
The pension system in Cuba faces several challenges, such as an aging population, a shortage of active workforce, and an economy in crisis that is unable to sustain the pension system. Additionally, pensioners struggle to meet basic needs due to inflation and the low purchasing power of their pensions.
Is a reform of the pension system in Cuba expected?
At the moment, no comprehensive reform of the pension system in Cuba has been announced. The government has indicated that there are not enough financial resources to make structural changes and will continue with partial adjustments, such as the recent pension increase.
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