Recently, the National Revolutionary Police (PNR) forces halted a private sector motorcyclist at the El Cristo checkpoint in Santiago de Cuba, discovering several suspicious packages in transit.
According to the pro-government Facebook page "Héroes del Moncada," these packages contained over 85 packs of local cigarettes that lacked the necessary legal documentation. The cigarettes were allegedly intended for illicit sale, prompting authorities to seize the goods and arrest the individual involved.
In recent months, amidst an escalating economic crisis and severe product shortages, certain goods have reached exorbitant prices on the black market. Cigarettes have become particularly coveted, with their prices soaring remarkably high.
As recently as December, a pack of cigarettes had surged to 500 pesos in some provinces, highlighting the economic turmoil and the ineffectiveness of government measures against inflation.
The Facebook page "Ma Chete" sparked a lively discussion when it expressed shock over the steep price of cigarette packs, providing a platform for users to voice their opinions on the matter.
The price hike traces back to last April when the Cuban regime increased the price of cigarettes and tobacco in the national network of rationed sales outlets, such as bodegas and stores, justifying that "it is not an essential consumption for the population."
This policy shift was formalized through Resolution 63 of the Ministry of Finance and Prices, published in the Official Gazette, which announced the price increase for various types of cigarettes and tobacco for national consumption.
Cuba's Economic Struggle and Cigarette Market
What led to the arrest of the motorcyclist in Santiago de Cuba?
The motorcyclist was arrested for transporting over 85 packs of local cigarettes without the required legal documentation, intended for illegal sale.
How have cigarette prices been affected by Cuba's economic crisis?
Cigarette prices have skyrocketed on the black market due to the economic crisis, with packs reaching as high as 500 pesos in some regions.
What was the government’s justification for increasing cigarette prices?
The Cuban government raised cigarette prices arguing that tobacco is not an essential consumption item for the population.