A Cuban woman raised awareness on TikTok about the immense difficulties of obtaining fish on the Island, despite being surrounded by the sea. In a video posted on her account @guajirita.cubana, she showcased the ordeal involved in purchasing this staple food and questioned the high prices and the restrictions faced by citizens.
"In Cuba, eating fish is almost impossible, even though we are surrounded by the sea," he stated while recording the moment he managed to purchase 10 pounds of the product for 3,000 Cuban pesos (CUP), equivalent to about 12 dollars at the current informal exchange rate.
According to the explanation, finding fresh fish in state markets is uncommon, and the population cannot fish freely. Only licensed fishermen are permitted, while species such as shrimp and lobster are practically prohibited for domestic consumption, as they are primarily allocated for export or the tourist sector.
The content creator also pointed out that some of the available fish is sold in stores where payment is in dollars, a currency that most Cubans do not have access to. This turns a traditional food into a luxury for many families.
In coastal municipalities, the situation may be slightly more favorable due to direct access to local fishermen. However, those living far from the sea face greater obstacles. Sometimes, she explained, only private vendors authorized by the government are able to offer it, but there isn't always enough for everyone.
“Tell me if you find it expensive or reasonably priced,” she commented while displaying her purchase, reflecting the ongoing debate between necessity and the actual purchasing power of salaries in Cuba.
The testimony adds to the repeated complaints from citizens about the shortage of basic food items in the country and the continued rise in prices of essential products, amid an economic crisis that continues to heavily impact the Cuban population.
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