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The Cuban economist Pedro Monreal warned that the crisis of egg production on the island during the era of "ordering" has reached levels of devastation even greater than those experienced during the so-called Special Period of the 1990s.
In a thread posted on the social network X, Monreal analyzes an article from the official portal Cubadebate, and points out that this drop is one of the most serious expressions of current food insecurity in the country.
“The devastation of egg production in Cuba during the era of ‘ordering’—far greater than the collapse of the ‘special period’ in the 90s—is one of the most serious aspects of current food insecurity,” wrote the academic.
The economist also criticized the way the official press has treated the situation, presenting a supposed "new management model" as a "lifeline" that, according to him, "resembles a dated medieval system of bartering physical units more than a contractual relationship guided by economic calculations stemming from market relations."
The suggestion echoed by Cubadebate states that "in light of such deterioration, a new management model has been implemented since the end of last year. Through a contract of cooperative production, suppliers of feed —state and private micro, small, and medium enterprises, agricultural producers, state companies, and even organizations involved in foreign investment schemes, among others— provide the food and receive 70% of what is produced. Meanwhile, poultry farming contributes the poultry mass, technology, labor, and infrastructure, and retains 30% of the chicks."
Monreal's post generated immediate reactions among users on the social media platform.
The internet user @ogarciazaldivar questioned the feasibility of the official proposals, and emphasized that in the 1990s “no one thought of sustaining poultry and pork production without buying feed” and that currently “the poultry population, infrastructure, and technology are virtually nonexistent.”
Monreal's statement adds to the calls from experts and citizens who are denouncing the growing shortage of basic food items in Cuba, worsened by the structural economic crisis, the lack of investments in the agro-food sector, and the absence of effective policies to ensure the island's food sovereignty.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Egg Production Crisis in Cuba
Why is egg production in Cuba in crisis?
The production of eggs in Cuba is in crisis due to a combination of factors, including a lack of supplies, a shortage of feed, and a deteriorated poultry infrastructure. The situation is more severe than during the Special Period of the 1990s, reflecting a structural economic crisis and ineffective management of the agri-food sector.
What measures is the Cuban government taking to address the egg production crisis?
The Cuban government has implemented a "new management model" that includes cooperative production, where feed suppliers receive 70% of what is produced. However, this model has been criticized for resembling more a medieval barter scheme than a modern economic system, and it has not succeeded in reversing the shortage of eggs.
How does the egg production crisis affect the Cuban population?
The production crisis of eggs in Cuba has led to exorbitant prices in the informal market, making a basic food item inaccessible for a large part of the population. This contributes to food insecurity and social discontent, as evidenced by protests and spontaneous demonstrations in the country.
Why is Cuba's current situation compared to the Special Period?
The current situation in Cuba is compared to the Special Period due to the severity of the economic crisis, characterized by food shortages, the collapse of public services, and inflation. Today, various indicators, such as agricultural production and the availability of basic goods, are even below the levels of the Special Period, which exacerbates the social and economic situation in the country.
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