A young Cuban demonstrated on TikTok that she spent over 5,000 pesos on basic hygiene products, an amount that surpasses the minimum pension and represents more than what an average state worker earns in Cuba.
"I live in Cuba and I spent my salary in one day," reads the video from user @yaneisycanta_98, where she showcases what she bought: shampoo and conditioner for 2,600 CUP, two bars of soap for 360 CUP, a tube of toothpaste for 500 CUP, a keratin treatment for 650 CUP, and a pack of sanitary pads for 1,100 CUP. All of this adds up to 5,210 Cuban pesos.
In a clarification within the content itself, the young woman specified: "Note. This is not my salary. It's so you can get an idea of this," explaining that it is an illustrative example of how much basic monthly hygiene costs for a person on the island.
The reaction on social media was swift. Many users commented, comparing prices with those in countries like Venezuela, Mexico, or Colombia, while others wondered how it was possible to buy those products if salaries are insufficient. There were also those who accused her of lying or receiving help from abroad. She responded, "I work for social media."
His testimony adds to other viral content he has published on the same platform, where he has denounced that wages in Cuba are insufficient "even if you sacrifice an entire month," and that many people "go out to scrape together a meal", referring to the daily struggle to obtain food.
This reality contrasts with official data indicating that the average salary in Cuba is 6,649 pesos, although in budgeted sectors like health or education it barely exceeds 5,900. According to independent economists, this income is equivalent to just over 16 dollars at the informal exchange rate and does not cover even a minimal part of basic needs.
Pensioners are also not in a better situation. Following a recent increase, the minimum pension was set at 4,000 pesos, which amounts to less than 10 dollars in the informal market, in a context of constant inflation and devaluation. In many cases, this amount barely covers one or two essential products.
The young woman has also responded to criticisms regarding supposed benefits of the state system, stating that "in Cuba, nothing is given for free," not even healthcare, as "you have to bring everything" to the hospital. Other testimonies have reflected the same deterioration, with reports of patients undergoing surgery without supplies, broken elevators, and a lack of medications.
Meanwhile, the State continues to allocate resources to the hotel sector, where construction workers can earn up to 40,000 pesos a month, a figure significantly higher than what a doctor or a university professor makes. This happens despite hotel occupancy remaining below 22%, according to official figures.
Amidst blackouts, shortages, and inflation, an increasing number of citizens are highlighting on social media the gap between the regime's rhetoric and everyday reality. For many, purchasing a shampoo or a tube of toothpaste can cost the equivalent of an entire month's salary.
Frequently asked questions about the economic crisis in Cuba
How much does basic monthly hygiene cost in Cuba?
A young Cuban showcased on TikTok that she spent over 5,000 pesos on basic hygiene products, such as shampoo, conditioner, soap, toothpaste, keratin, and sanitary pads. This expense exceeds the minimum pension and the average salary of a state worker in Cuba, making it clear that monthly basic hygiene is extremely expensive on the island.
What are the average incomes of workers and retirees in Cuba?
The average salary in Cuba is approximately 6,649 Cuban pesos, although in sectors such as health or education it barely exceeds 5,900. Pensioners receive a minimum pension of 4,000 pesos, which is equivalent to less than 10 dollars at the informal exchange rate, in a context of constant inflation and devaluation.
How does inflation affect purchasing power in Cuba?
Inflation in Cuba has caused a significant increase in the prices of basic goods, such as food and hygiene products, while salaries and pensions have not risen proportionately. This leaves many Cubans unable to meet their basic needs, despite working or having worked their entire lives. The situation is especially critical for retirees who rely on very low fixed incomes.
What alternatives do Cubans have in the face of the current economic crisis?
Amid the economic crisis, many Cubans turn to informal jobs or rely on assistance from family members abroad. Social media has also become a platform to denounce the situation and seek support. However, these alternatives are not always enough to overcome economic precariousness and the lack of basic resources.
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