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The province of Las Tunas does not have rice available at this time. This was confirmed by the state media Periódico 26 in an update on the distribution of the regulated basic basket, which openly acknowledges the shortage of the grain.
In the post, the section dedicated to the product is explicit: "Critical situation: There is no rice for the province at this time". As a cause, it was explained that "the ship that was supposed to transport the rice from Cienfuegos to the port of Nuevitas is delayed due to a breakdown in the coastal route of Matanzas".
The official message itself indicated that distribution depends on logistical and energy factors. In the case of bread, it was stated: “Coverage is planned for 50% of the month, which could mean 15 days of bread, distributed continuously or in segments”. Furthermore, it was clarified that the reason is “Problems with fuel to transport the flour from Santiago de Cuba”.
Regarding other products, it was reported that "The sale of 125 grams of coffee is maintained at 300 pesos (excellent quality, not subsidized)" and that "It can be purchased by presenting the supply booklet at the El Serrucho markets and another in the city center." However, it was clarified: "This coffee has not yet been distributed to all the bodegas and planned industrial markets. It is recommended to visit the central points."
The publication concluded by stating that “the availability of these basic products depends on complex national logistics amid the current situation caused by the U.S. energy blockade.” However, once again, the authorities attribute the crisis to external factors without providing detailed explanations about internal management failures, the near-total dependence on imports, or the structural problems of the national production system. Meanwhile, the population continues to face shortages without concrete solutions.
Following the official information, citizen reactions reflected discomfort and disbelief. "Where is the rice donated by China?" asked one user. Another wrote: "Even donating the rice, it doesn’t reach our hands." Comments such as "In summary, there is nothing," "What a lack of respect," and "In other words, widespread hunger" were also seen.
Some internet users questioned the repeated logistical explanations. "If they don't have fuel, does that mean the people go hungry?" wrote one. Another commented, "Always the same reason." There were also complaints about the distribution of donations: "And the donations?" "Not even a pound" and "Where are the 60 thousand tons from China?"
In recent weeks, it was reported that China would send 30,000 tons of rice to Cuba as "emergency food assistance," with initial shipments arriving at the ports of Havana and Santiago de Cuba. However, comments related to the situation in Las Tunas raise repeated questions about the destination of these shipments and other deliveries announced from Vietnam and Mexico.
The scenario occurs against a backdrop of strong external dependence in the national landscape. Official data from 2023, analyzed by economist Pedro Monreal, indicates that the "total availability" of rice was 511,584 metric tons, of which 484,222 came from imports, while domestic production for consumption was 27,326 tons. This analysis highlights that the goal of eliminating external purchases in "two or three years" would require a productive increase that has been deemed "unlikely" under current conditions.
Meanwhile, in Las Tunas, the official confirmation is clear: “There is no rice for the province at this time.” The provided explanation points to a breakdown in the ship responsible for transportation and fuel limitations, but the population continues to go without the cereal that is an essential part of their daily diet.
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