A Cuban woman took to social media to demonstrate how she spent 5,000 pesos, equivalent to a professional's monthly salary, within minutes and on just a few groceries. Anita Mateu (@anita.mateu) shared her experience on TikTok, highlighting the severe inflation in Cuba with a stark message: “The sad reality of my country.”
“We spent a professional’s salary in just a moment,” the young woman explained while showing her purchases, which included two bottles of soda, two packets of sugar, beans, and a carton of eggs, some of which were broken. “There are a few pesos wasted there.”
“It wasn’t many things,” she noted, emphasizing that these few items cost the equivalent of what a doctor in Cuba earns. Finally, she was surprised to find several Spanish products on the street, indicating that the poorly stocked state-run stores, including the hard currency stores, force those who can to buy from the so-called mipyme businesses.
In Cuba, people not only spend large amounts of money on food but when there's something left of their battered monthly salary, the situation with other products is equally disheartening: skyrocketing prices.
Last March, during the 32nd International Book Fair, the cultural event once again left a bitter taste due to the high cost of books, with some reaching the equivalent of a monthly salary.
Communicator Yosmany Mayeta shared the frustration of a mother who, upon taking her son to the book fair, chose not to buy any books due to the exorbitant prices. “This message is just to say that these are the unit prices at the Children’s Book Fair. A month's salary for us parents is approximately what a book costs,” the woman lamented.
Understanding the Economic Challenges in Cuba
In light of the severe economic conditions in Cuba, here are some frequently asked questions that provide further insight into the situation.
What is the average salary for a professional in Cuba?
The average salary for a professional in Cuba is around 5,000 pesos per month, which is roughly equivalent to $200 USD depending on the exchange rate.
Why are prices so high in Cuba?
Prices are high in Cuba due to a combination of factors including economic mismanagement, inflation, and lack of supply in state-run stores, forcing people to turn to more expensive private markets.
What are mipyme businesses?
Mipyme businesses are small and medium-sized enterprises that provide an alternative to state-run stores, often offering better-stocked but more expensive products.