A video shared on TikTok by user @cuba.live2 offers a glimpse into an improvised street shop in Cuba, where well-known brand products are sold—albeit as replicas. The young man filming explains that these items are not authentic, highlighting the economic challenges faced by Cubans. Due to the exorbitant prices of genuine articles and the hurdles in importing them, locals turn to more affordable alternatives.
"Here we have a clothing store, selling garments brought from various countries. Mostly, they are knockoffs and are sold here," the young man narrates while showcasing a stand brimming with handbags, shoes, and products from brands like Gucci and Nike.
The video's creator mentions that many items are labeled as "triple A copies," a term indicating their quality in the replica market. "All kinds of branded shoes, take a look; they told me these are triple A copies because Cubans can't afford to buy originals, and importing them is very expensive," he adds.
The Informal Economy: A Glimpse into Cuban Street Markets
The street-side shop featured in the video underscores the informal nature of commerce on the island, where numerous vendors depend on such businesses to make ends meet. Despite the scarcity, the products on display aim to provide a touch of glamour to those seeking fashionable items at lower prices.
These types of sales not only showcase the ingenuity of Cubans striving to survive in a challenging economic environment but also reveal the high demand for brand-name products, even when they're not genuine. The prevalence of informal markets and replicas stems from the economic and commercial barriers that restrict access to consumer goods in Cuba.
The video, which has garnered thousands of views on TikTok, continues to spark a range of reactions—from criticisms of product quality to comments empathizing with the struggles of both sellers and buyers.