Last Thursday, Cuban state-controlled profiles reported the arrest of three Cuban citizens accused of stealing goods intended for the ration card system in Matanzas Province. According to a Facebook page linked to the Ministry of the Interior (MININT), "With Everyone the Victory," the incident occurred in the early hours of December 22 in the Pedro Betancourt municipality.
The individuals, named Yunieski Fernández Martínez, Adrián Ortega Morales, and Yasmany Morejón Boitel, were caught in the Jovellanos municipality of the same province. They had unlawfully taken three sacks of rice and one of sugar. These items were part of the basic food supplies distributed in the "El Sol" and "La Aurora" stores in Pedro Betancourt and had already been reported missing, impacting a considerable number of consumers in the area.
Among the accused, Morejón Boitel has a criminal record for assault and crimes involving livestock, which complicates his legal situation. Authorities stated that the three individuals, who have ties to the Commerce sector, will face charges of unlawful appropriation.
The Importance of the Ration Card System in Cuba
For decades, the ration card system in Cuba has been the primary avenue for families to obtain essential goods like rice, sugar, oil, and coffee. However, in recent years, the system has faced increasing challenges due to the nation’s economic crisis. A shortage of foreign currency has curtailed the government's ability to import food, while domestic production has declined, heightening reliance on imports.
This predicament has led to frequent delays and shortages in the distribution of basic goods, severely impacting the daily lives of Cubans. In December 2024, the Cuban government announced a gradual phase-out of subsidies for the rationed food basket, citing the need to address economic distortions and redirect assistance towards vulnerable populations.
Public Concerns and Government Reassurances
This decision has sparked concern among the populace, as sustained inflation and inadequate wages have left many fearing they will be unable to access essential food without state support. Moreover, the lack of clarity regarding the implementation of new assistance policies has heightened public uncertainty and dissatisfaction.
Nevertheless, days later, the Ministry of Internal Trade (Mincin) assured through its official channels that the distribution of ration cards for 2025 will be guaranteed for all households across the country.
Key Questions About Cuba's Ration System and Food Security
What is the ration card system in Cuba?
The ration card system in Cuba is a mechanism through which families receive basic food items like rice, sugar, oil, and coffee at subsidized prices. It has been a cornerstone for Cuban households for decades.
Why are there shortages in the ration card system?
Shortages in the ration card system are primarily due to the economic crisis in Cuba, which has resulted in a lack of foreign currency to import food and a decline in domestic production, leading to increased dependence on imports.