On Tuesday, a crowd gathered in El Calvario, Havana, in hopes of purchasing a canister of liquefied gas, a resource that has become increasingly scarce across the island and is essential for cooking meals. Photos shared on social media and by independent Cuban outlet El Vigía depicted residents from the Arroyo Naranjo municipality, clutching empty cylinders, waiting under the harsh sun in dire conditions. This scene starkly illustrates the severe supply crisis impacting the nation.
This issue isn't new. Back in December 2024, the Cuban regime proclaimed the resumption of nationwide liquefied gas distribution after purportedly overcoming financial hurdles with international suppliers. Nevertheless, despite government claims of reaching "all provinces," the long queues at locations like El Calvario clearly highlight that supply remains insufficient to meet demand.
Moreover, the cost of liquefied gas rose by 20% at the beginning of 2024, a decision justified by the alleged rise in international market costs and the internal economic turmoil. This price hike has not only strained Cubans' finances but also fueled public frustration, as it has not led to improved service or more equitable distribution.
In 2023, the regime introduced an economic measure package ("ordenamiento") that already included price hikes on basic goods like gas, citing the need to "sustain the national economy." Rather than alleviating circumstances, these measures have deepened uncertainty and hardships for families reliant on liquefied gas for cooking amid frequent power outages and food shortages.
Long lines for acquiring liquefied gas aren't an isolated occurrence. In October 2024, reports surfaced of waits extending up to three days in various parts of Havana and other provinces, where people slept on the streets alongside their empty cylinders to secure a spot in line. Distribution delays are attributed to logistical issues, including a lack of fuel to transport gas to sales points.
For many Cuban families, liquefied gas is the only viable cooking option, as electric stoves are impractical due to frequent power cuts, and charcoal burners are both inconvenient and hazardous in urban settings. However, access to gas is increasingly limited, and uncertainty about the next delivery is a constant concern for thousands of households.
The Cuban regime maintains that it is doing everything possible to ensure distribution, yet reality reveals an inefficient system overwhelmed by high demand. Furthermore, the absence of transparency regarding distribution operations and the scarcity of official information exacerbate public distrust, with no immediate solutions in sight.
In areas like El Calvario, the queues not only highlight Cuba's economic and social crisis but also underscore the deteriorating quality of life in the country. With high costs and uncertain availability, securing a gas canister has become a daily challenge for Cubans, who endure lengthy waits with the hope of bringing home a fundamental resource for their everyday needs.
Meanwhile, the situation remains dire, and each queue serves as a reminder of the regime's failure to provide even the most essential goods, in a nation where even basic necessities have become an unattainable luxury for many.
Understanding Cuba's Gas Scarcity Crisis
Why is liquefied gas so scarce in Cuba?
The scarcity of liquefied gas in Cuba is primarily due to logistical issues, financial struggles with international suppliers, and the inefficiency of distribution systems overwhelmed by high demand.
How have price hikes affected Cuban households?
The 20% increase in liquefied gas prices has strained Cuban households financially, exacerbating public frustration as the price hike has not translated into improved service or distribution.
What alternatives do Cubans have for cooking?
Cubans primarily rely on liquefied gas for cooking due to frequent power outages that make electric stoves impractical, and the hazardous nature of using charcoal burners in urban areas.