A representative from the Ministry of Domestic Trade (MINCIN) stated that it is not possible to deliver donations to the entire Cuban population, explaining that the reach of these resources depends on the volume received and the categorization of prioritized beneficiaries, including pregnant women, underweight children, and individuals in vulnerable situations.
Thus, this was revealed during a statement by Marpessa Portal, General Director of Merchandise Sales at the Ministry of Domestic Trade (MINCIN), broadcast by the official Canal Caribe.
"It is not possible to reach the entire population with these donations," said the management, in response to one of the most frequent questions regarding the distribution of aid.
According to the explanation, to guarantee at least one pound of any product, more than 4,500 tons are required, so the authorities must decide the allocation of resources based on the amount received and the characteristics of the population registered in the Consumer Registration Offices, commonly known as Oficodas.
The official specified that decisions regarding distribution are made "taking into account the characteristics of the received resources, the number of consumers segmented into various age groups, or pregnant women, which has been one of the main focuses for these received products."
He added that it is possible to cover all territories of the country when the volume of the donation allows for it, citing the beans recently received from Mexico as an example.
According to their statements, this new delivery of beans will ensure distribution to "all pregnant women and children who are underweight and short for their age in the country."
Sale of donations?
The official's statements came during an appearance in which the MINCIN refuted claims circulated on social media and in some media outlets regarding a supposed sale in state stores and the informal market of products donated by Mexico.
The merchandise sales director of the organization stated that "donations cannot be sold" and maintained that these resources have a defined purpose and are subject to "strict control mechanisms all the way to the end consumer."
He explained that the establishments maintain administrative control over the deliveries, which are also recorded in the supply ledger. He stated that it remains “a fundamental tool for managing product deliveries, not only for donations but also for the regulated family basket.”
In the face of any violation, he called for "popular control," citizen reporting, and the institutional mechanisms established to restore legality.
The official also stated that the distribution of products donated by Mexico is progressing "at an appropriate pace," despite the logistical challenges the country is facing.
In that regard, he noted that Artemisa was about to complete the distribution in the remaining municipalities, that Mayabeque was in a similar situation, that in the Island of Youth the process was nearing completion, and that in Havana the distribution intended for underweight and undersized children had already concluded.
He added that the remaining food and non-food supplies being distributed in the capital should be completed "over the next few days."
It was also reported that, along with the beans, powdered milk was received, and one kilogram will be distributed for children aged 1 to 6 in all provinces where this product is delivered.
He clarified that in other regions, due to local regulations, liquid milk is distributed.
In her remarks, the board emphasized that currently there are other ongoing distributions that are unrelated to the Mexican donation.
Among them, she mentioned the rice donated by Korea, which is already being delivered in Pinar del Río, Artemisa, Havana, Cienfuegos, Camagüey, and the five eastern provinces through the World Food Programme (WFP). The rest of the territories, she mentioned, would be added to this delivery over the course of the month.
Who are they for?
This rice distribution benefits pregnant women and individuals in vulnerable situations. The official emphasized that it is a product "that has a wide spectrum," as it encompasses "a large number of consumers" based on the selection made.
He also recalled that in the eastern provinces, the distribution of a bimonthly food package for pregnant women and vulnerable individuals continues. He specified that this distribution is neither new nor recent, as it has been carried out for several years in collaboration with the WFP. This package contains rice, peas, and oil.
Finally, he thanked "friendly countries," governmental and non-governmental organizations, as well as agencies and programs of the United Nations, for their support in this process.
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