• Submitted by: Camila
• Business and Economy
• 12 / 02 / 2014

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Marino Murillo Jorge reported that Cuban government expects growth of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) "slightly above 4%" in 2015. The major results will be in sectors such as manufacturing, construction, trade, agriculture, livestock and forestry.

2014 should close with a growth of 1.3%, nine tenths below the 2.2 expected. Murillo said that the sugar and manufacturing are the main responsible for the breach.

Cuban Vice President appeared before the Council of Ministers on Economy Plan 2015. It is intended to maximize efficiency of internal reserves; to direct resources towards the revival of key sectors such as manufacturing; the growth of investments; and maintain basic social services similar to last years levels.

Murillo reported that by 2015 the country will spend about 2.194 million dollars in food imports, 137 million more than in 2014. The increase in spending on these purchases is seen as a failure of the economic measures taken by the government to increase food production and reduce imports.

On the other hand, the economy minister said the average salary has grown by 9.1% due to the implementation of increases in the sectors of Health and Sports, as well as foreign investment during the last quarter. However, the maximum salary of these professionals remains inadequate.

Source: Diario de Cuba