Cuba purchased less chicken from the United States between January and July of 2024, according to data released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The recorded amount stood at 146,000 tons, roughly equivalent to 5,840 containers. This figure is lower than the same period in 2023, although the total value was 2.5 percent higher, indicating a price increase, explained the renowned economist Pedro Monreal.
On the social network X, Monreal noted that, on a monthly basis, the exported tonnage decreased by 7.5 percent in July 2024, with a 6.7 percent drop in value. This reflects the usual fluctuating pattern of monthly chicken meat exports from the U.S. to Cuba.
He also highlighted that exports from the U.S. are the primary source of the most consumed animal protein in Cuba, offsetting the severe national agricultural crisis.
The value of $1.24 per kilogram of U.S. chicken exported in July 2024 was slightly higher than the previous month ($1.23/Kg). This is the FOB (Free on Board) value at the port of shipment.
The figures from the U.S. Department of Agriculture include all chicken meat exports to Cuba, contracted to be marketed by all types of entities (state-owned, cooperatives, and SMEs).
A lower level was also recorded in the first half of the year, while at the end of 2023, there was a dramatic drop in chicken exports, with a 26.5 percent decrease in value and a 32 percent decrease in volume compared to the previous month, reaching its lowest level since June 2020.
All this is happening while chicken has been scarce in Cuban stores and government-run markets for months. Additionally, prices in these sales outlets have increased.
Understanding Cuba's Chicken Import Decline
To provide more insights into the recent changes in Cuba's chicken imports, we have compiled some frequently asked questions and their answers.
Why did Cuba purchase less chicken from the United States in early 2024?
The decline in chicken imports from the United States is attributed to various factors, including fluctuating export patterns and the increased price of chicken.
How much chicken did Cuba import from the United States between January and July 2024?
Cuba imported 146,000 tons of chicken from the United States during this period.
What is the significance of U.S. chicken exports to Cuba?
U.S. chicken exports are crucial as they are the primary source of the most consumed animal protein in Cuba, helping to mitigate the country's severe agricultural crisis.