The Ministry of Domestic Trade (MINCIN) issued a statement this Saturday addressing the ongoing delays and progress in delivering essential goods through the ration book system amid a severe crisis impacting thousands of Cuban families. The government has emphasized that ensuring the regulated family basket remains a top priority, despite facing significant logistical and transportation challenges in supplying more than 12,000 stores nationwide.
Notably, the distribution of milk remains uneven. While it is assured for children aged 0 to 2 years until January 10, 2025, provinces such as Mayabeque, Cienfuegos, Sancti Spíritus, Camagüey, and Las Tunas are only providing fluid milk to children aged 6 months to 1 year. Meanwhile, children aged 2 to 6 years in Artemisa, Matanzas, Cienfuegos, Villa Clara, Ciego de Ávila, Las Tunas, and Granma receive fresh milk. In some areas receiving powdered milk, a chocolate mix is distributed as a substitute.
Other staples, including rice, are in the process of completing overdue November distributions (seven pounds), with December supplies being gradually rolled out. The delivery of sugar (two pounds per person), oil, fruit purees, and grains from previous months is also confirmed. For chicken, priority is given to children under 13, seniors over 65, pregnant women, and those with chronic medical diets.
The availability of salt has been assured, with distribution currently underway across the island. Additionally, as part of the World Food Program's support, extra rations are being provided in provinces affected by Hurricanes Oscar and Rafael. Residents in Artemisa and Guantánamo receive rice, peas, and oil, while food packets are distributed to vulnerable individuals in Havana and other areas.
Regarding hygiene products, the distribution of soap and toothpaste continues on a bi-monthly basis, with liquid detergent being allocated quarterly according to regional priorities. In recent months, the supply of food items such as rice, sugar, oil, and chicken has faced significant delays. For instance, in December 2023, the MINCIN acknowledged the absence of rice, coffee, and grains in stores at the beginning of the month, pledging to gradually fulfill these distributions.
Moreover, in September 2024, it was announced there would be no oil or coffee available for the basic basket, highlighting the ongoing shortage of these products. The situation has worsened following the government's recent decision to remove subsidies for the basic basket. This move, described as irreversible by Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz, aims to redirect aid toward vulnerable populations, though specific implementation mechanisms remain unclear.
Compounding the crisis, domestic food production has decreased, increasing reliance on imports amid currency shortages and financial constraints. The government has publicly acknowledged the difficulties in ensuring the basic basket, citing resource shortages and the need to adjust distribution policies.
As the crisis deepens, Cubans face growing challenges in accessing essential goods, creating a "very critical and very negative" public sentiment, as acknowledged by leader Miguel Díaz-Canel. Despite ongoing promises to improve conditions, economic and logistical obstacles continue to affect daily life for citizens.
Key Challenges in Cuba's Ration System
What are the main issues with the distribution of milk in Cuba?
The main issues include uneven distribution across different provinces and age groups, with some areas only receiving fluid milk for young children and others providing fresh milk or chocolate mix substitutes.
How is the Cuban government addressing the shortage of essential goods?
The government is prioritizing the delivery of essential goods to vulnerable groups and working with international organizations like the World Food Program to provide additional rations in hurricane-affected areas.
What impact does the removal of subsidies have on Cuban citizens?
The removal of subsidies has exacerbated the scarcity of goods, leading to increased challenges for citizens in accessing basic necessities, while the government plans to redirect support to vulnerable populations.