A Cuban state journalist recently visited an agricultural fair in Matanzas, likening the experience to a trip to the Wild West. Yuni Moliner shared her experience on Facebook last Sunday: "The consumer deception is so blatant that sometimes you don't know if you're at a fair or in the Wild West," commented the journalist, criticizing the government's lack of control in organizing this commercial activity.
"There were only two kiosks selling chicken at 310 per pound, but they were selling at full speed," Moliner pointed out. "Take advantage because for the rest of the week, chicken plays hide-and-seek," she emphasized, suggesting that the scarcity of this food is a common issue in the province.
The journalist explained that while waiting in line to buy mangoes, an inspector arrived "with the price list as if it were the declaration of independence," and added that, thanks to this "visit," she was able to purchase the fruit at a lower price.
"But the corn that was being sold for 17 was raised to 20 because that's what the list says," another example of the regime's absurd policies in controlling product prices.
In her post, the journalist humorously highlighted two current issues faced by citizens: the regime's inability to guarantee basic rationed items and the price-capping regulations.
"Since they say two pounds of sugar are coming to the store, I rushed to get the fruits. Happiness is never complete, and what the store clerk gives me isn't either," Moliner expressed.
The trials this Cuban woman faced at an agricultural fair in Matanzas are not exclusive to that province.
A resident of Sancti Spíritus recently complained about the poor quality of yogurt purchased at a fair, which was intended for a child, leading the Cuban to criticize the regime, asking: "Do you think this is suitable for a child?"
Michel Alayon explained on Facebook that during a fair in Sancti Spíritus, he bought a yogurt whose taste he described as "crap with bread flour."
Issues at Agricultural Fairs in Cuba: Questions and Concerns
The experiences shared by Yuni Moliner and Michel Alayon highlight the ongoing challenges and concerns faced by Cuban citizens when attending agricultural fairs. Here are some frequently asked questions addressing these issues.
What are the main issues faced by consumers at agricultural fairs in Cuba?
The main issues include blatant consumer deception, inconsistent pricing, scarcity of essential items, and poor quality of products.
How does the government control pricing at these fairs?
The government attempts to control pricing through regulatory price lists, but these measures often result in absurd and inconsistent pricing practices.
What have been the reactions of citizens to the quality of products at these fairs?
Citizens have expressed frustration and disappointment, particularly when the quality of products is poor, as exemplified by complaints about yogurt in Sancti Spíritus.