The price of eggs in Cuba has soared to alarming levels, now exceeding 5,000 pesos per carton in the informal market, amid the severe food crisis affecting the country's population. The Facebook profile Edmundo Dantés Junior highlighted the exorbitant cost, noting that "almost a doctor's salary in my province" is needed to purchase a carton of eggs (30 units).
The surge in egg prices reflects the rampant inflation impacting the Cuban economy, where basic and essential goods have become unattainable for most families. Manuel Viera, another social media user, humorously commented on the situation this week. After displaying a table with eggshells, he claimed to have "invested almost a dollar in them."
Viera added, "And here I am! Waiting for the creative recipe ladies to find some way to use the eggshells. After paying more than 100 pesos for each one... something must be done with them," he remarked.
Drastic Price Increase in Just One Month
In July, the cost of a carton of eggs in Havana had already surpassed the country's minimum wage, averaging 2,225 pesos. However, just a month later, the price has risen dramatically. The National Office of Statistics and Information (ONEI) indicated in its latest report that annual inflation in Cuba's formal market reached 30.48% in July, with almost all categories experiencing year-over-year increases above 10%, confirming the continued erosion of purchasing power on the island.
Economist Pedro Monreal stated that the official data from July "confirm the failure of the anti-inflationary component of the 2024 economic package – announced by the regime in a fragmented and erratic manner – with a sustained effect of decreased purchasing power" for the population.
Understanding Cuba's Egg Price Crisis
Here are some frequently asked questions and answers that provide further insight into the ongoing issue of skyrocketing egg prices in Cuba.
Why have egg prices in Cuba risen so dramatically?
Egg prices in Cuba have surged due to rampant inflation and severe shortages of basic food items, a reflection of the broader economic crisis affecting the country.
How does the current price of eggs compare to the average salary in Cuba?
The current price of a carton of eggs, over 5,000 pesos, is nearly equivalent to or even exceeds the average monthly salary of many professionals, including doctors, highlighting the severe economic disparity.
What does the National Office of Statistics and Information (ONEI) report say about inflation?
The ONEI's latest report indicates that annual inflation in Cuba's formal market reached 30.48% in July, with almost all categories experiencing year-over-year increases above 10%, confirming the ongoing loss of purchasing power.