Amid the severe and widespread crisis in Cuba and the rapidly accelerating inflation, residents on the island are turning to the age-old practice of bartering, exchanging “garlic and onions for cigarettes” or “vegetables and clothes for detergent.”
Instagram influencer Lali Freedom shared that she visited her uncle in Mariel and was surprised to find that he went out to trade vegetables, paying with packages of detergent.
She also noted that a string of garlic is equivalent to five packages of detergent and a new sheet to 12. Many people in that area acquire detergent from stores that sell in MLC (freely convertible currency) or through modules provided by some workplaces, the young influencer detailed.
Her followers mentioned that this bartering method is even used in Havana, where in neighborhoods like El Vedado, people exchange garlic and onions for cigarettes.
Understanding Cuba's Bartering System Amid Economic Crisis
In light of the severe economic conditions in Cuba, many residents have returned to bartering as a means of survival. Here are some commonly asked questions regarding this practice:
Why are Cubans resorting to bartering?
The severe economic crisis and rapid inflation have made it difficult for Cubans to access essential goods. Bartering allows them to trade items they have for those they need.
What are some common items being bartered?
Common bartered items include garlic, onions, cigarettes, vegetables, clothes, and detergent.