An incident involving a truck from the Cimex Corporation in Santiago de Cuba led to the spilling of several cans of malt beverage onto the street. This provided a rare opportunity for locals, who are unable to purchase the drink due to its prohibitive prices, to take some home.
"The malt has arrived," posted communicator Yosmany Mayeta on Facebook, explaining that the event took place after 2 PM near the store known as La Melipona, specifically on the Caney road. In recent years, this beverage has vanished from Cuban households due to the high prices imposed by private enterprises and official stores, which are the current vendors.
"Anyone who decides to have a malt will almost have to spend half their monthly salary, and if they are retired, their entire monthly pension," denounced the independent journalist, highlighting the rampant inflation that governs Cuban society today.
The mishap occurred in the Vista Alegre neighborhood, "where large mansions and the guest houses of the communist leaders are located," noted the independent journalist.
Similar events have happened on various occasions, underscoring the poverty and desperation faced by the Cuban people, forced into actions that undermine their dignity amid an unresolved economic crisis exacerbated by the regime.
In February, another scene illustrating the desperate scarcity experienced by Cubans was shared by influencer Alain Lambert, known for his channel Paparazzi Cubano, showing a group of Cubans collecting yogurt from the trash.
"Look at this situation," says a voice with a hint of joy after finding something to eat, despite the poor condition of the product.
A similar incident occurred in March in Havana. An online user reported that a group of Cubans picked up rice and beans from the ground after they were confiscated from a street vendor at an agricultural market in the Río Verde district of Boyeros municipality. The confiscation was carried out by an inspector in coordination with the National Revolutionary Police for allegedly violating price limits, according to the Facebook page "Con el otro filo."
The author of the post questioned the Cuban regime's recent decision to increase fuel prices fivefold while simultaneously punishing those who alter the prices of any product.
Cuban Economic Crisis and Scarcity
Below are some frequently asked questions regarding the economic crisis and scarcity in Cuba, highlighting the struggles faced by its people.
Why are malt beverages so expensive in Cuba?
The high prices of malt beverages in Cuba are due to the inflation and economic policies imposed by private enterprises and official stores, making such items unaffordable for most citizens.
What happened in Santiago de Cuba involving the malt beverage truck?
A truck from the Cimex Corporation spilled several cans of malt onto the street, allowing locals, who usually can't afford the drink, to collect some for themselves.
Are incidents like this common in Cuba?
Yes, similar incidents have occurred frequently, highlighting the severe scarcity and economic difficulties faced by the Cuban population.
How does the Cuban government respond to price violations?
The Cuban government has been known to enforce strict measures against those who violate price limits, including confiscation of goods and heavy penalties.