MINCIN updates cement prices, but Cubans are asking on social media: “Where is the cement?”

The Ministry of Domestic Trade (MINCIN) announced the update of retail prices for cement in Cuba, a measure that sparked mockery and criticism among internet users, who responded on social media by asking where the product can actually be found, which has been practically absent from the market over the past year.

According to the official site Cubadebate, the new regulation has been established in Resolution 23 of MINCIN, as a continuation of the wholesale price update previously approved in Resolution 31 of the Ministry of Finance and Prices (MFP). According to the regulation, retail prices are set for the various types of cement being sold in the country.

However, after the official post on Facebook, many users responded with irony in the comments, questioning the usefulness of announcing prices for a product that is not available to the public. “Where can I find cement?” was one of the most frequently asked questions among internet users.

According to Marpessa O. Portal de Villiers, General Director of Merchandise Sales at MINCIN, there is a network of over 300 establishments in Cuba dedicated to the sale of construction materials, including various types of cement. However, the official herself acknowledged that the marketing of the product has been virtually nonexistent over the past year due to the complex productive situation in the sector.

"The adjustment of retail prices is in response to the changes made in wholesale prices, taking into account the increase in raw material costs and the technological deterioration of cement production plants," explained Portal de Villiers.

Regarding availability, the management reported that the industry expects to allocate around 3,000 tons of cement starting in December, primarily intended for western provinces and eastern regions of the country affected by recent weather events.

The distribution of the product will be handled by local governments, which must set priorities based on availability. Among the main beneficiaries are individuals with approved subsidies for construction activities and those affected by weather-related events.

However, the official acknowledged that the anticipated amount will not meet the existing demand, although, as she stated, it will help in advancing some constructive actions. She also clarified that the price update does not affect those who have approved subsidies.

Resolution 23 is available on the MINCIN website and requires establishments to display the new prices. Meanwhile, on social media, many Cubans insist that the main issue is not the cost of cement, but its prolonged absence at points of sale.