A Cuban woman has created a stir on TikTok after posting a video in which she claims that toilet paper has become a luxury item in Cuba, due to its high price in relation to state salaries.
"This is just a piece of paper for you to wipe your ass, but not for us; for us, it’s a luxury since nowadays this costs you more than half of a minimum wage," said the young woman, who appears in the video with a strip of toilet paper hanging from her neck in a symbolic gesture.
The woman explained that, due to the inability to purchase this basic product, many Cuban families are forced to resort to alternative methods such as "using old newspapers, unused school notebooks, and even leaves from trees."
In a direct and indignantly charged tone, the Cuban woman emphasized the vast gap between what is considered basic in other parts of the world and what constitutes a luxury for those living under the current economic conditions on the island.
"If you've made it this far, don't forget to follow me, because nothing happens to you and it does to me. You would really be helping me a lot," he concluded, appealing to the empathy of users outside of Cuba.
In Cuba, the minimum wage is around 2,100 Cuban pesos, while a roll of toilet paper can cost more than 1,200 CUP in the informal market, highlighting the precariousness and deterioration of citizens' purchasing power.
The original video was shared on the TikTok account @darlinmedina931 and quickly went viral due to the rawness of its message and the reality it reflects.
Frequently asked questions about the economic crisis and shortages in Cuba
Why is toilet paper considered a luxury in Cuba?
Toilet paper is considered a luxury in Cuba due to its high price compared to state salaries. A roll of toilet paper can cost more than half of a minimum wage in the country, which forces many families to seek more affordable alternatives such as using old newspapers or leaves from trees.
What are some of the basic products that are considered luxuries in Cuba?
In Cuba, basic products that are common in other countries, such as electricity, drinking water, food, toilet paper, and even footwear and clothing, are considered luxuries. The difficulty in obtaining these products is due to shortages and high costs in relation to low salaries. The current economic situation has turned everyday items that are taken for granted in other places into privileges.
How does partial dollarization impact the Cuban economy?
Partial dollarization in Cuba has intensified economic inequality, as only those with access to foreign currency can shop in stores that operate exclusively in dollars. This creates a perception of exclusion among the population receiving their salaries in Cuban pesos, while stores in the national currency remain understocked.
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