“Where is the blockade?”: Cubans confronted with prices in private businesses in Havana



Controversy over prices in MSEs in HavanaPhoto © Collage captures Facebook/EJ Morales

A promotional video of a small and medium-sized enterprise in Havana triggered a wave of reactions among Cubans, who questioned both the prices and the actual accessibility of those products amid the crisis.

In the comments on the video, several users questioned the official narrative regarding the "blockade," contrasting it with the availability of food in the store.

Then they say there is a blockade”, wrote Oleisy Ortega Pérez, while Amelia Pérez Cruz questioned: “And the blockade?”.

In the same vein, Mariacaridad Velázquez Aguilar sarcastically commented, "What blockade?"

The critiques also pointed to the origins of the products and to those behind these businesses.

Norge Ochoa stated that "all of that belongs to the government," while Roberto Gutiérrez suggested that the small and medium-sized enterprise could be linked to figures of authority.

Others, like Yaini Cuqui, noted that these ventures "are partnered with the government."

In addition, several users rejected the idea that it is an economical option.

Raulin Campos Leyva stated that the prices are "more expensive than in La Güinera and La Cuevita," while Maribel Amador Sánchez claimed that "everything is really expensive" and that the advertising does not reflect reality.

In similar terms, Sarahi Zayas described the prices as "very expensive," and Adis González declared, "There’s nothing economical about it."

There were also questions about the inequality in access to basic goods.

Yunier Morejón contrasted the abundance shown in the video with the scarcity in the state network, while Luis Márquez remarked, "Look where the products from the ration book are."

Other comments reflected widespread distrust. Luis ML Ramírez spoke of a "mafia," while Elcides Fernández suggested that behind the business "there must be someone from the upper echelons."

In the same vein, Osmany Duarte stated that these micro, small, and medium enterprises operate as "import and resale centers."

Although some users inquired about prices or how to access the location, a critical tone prevailed, questioning both the costs and the context in which these businesses operate, in a country where large segments of the population struggle to access basic food supplies.

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CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.