Content creator Jesús de Cuba (@jesusdecuba) recently took to TikTok to reveal a shocking reality for Cubans: the staggering price of mangoes on the island. Jesús visited the 19 y B Agromarket located in El Vedado, Havana, a market renowned not only for its wide range of agricultural products but also for its jaw-dropping prices.
Documenting prices in this market is a challenge for many content creators, as vendors typically disapprove of being filmed. Nevertheless, the footage captured was enough to highlight the extreme costs of several items.
As March rolls in and the fruit season barely begins, mangoes are being sold at an astonishing 500 Cuban pesos per pound. Similarly, soursops share this hefty price tag. Basic produce items are not far behind: lemons are priced at 600 pesos per pound, cachucha peppers at 1,000 pesos, bell peppers at 150 pesos, and tomatoes at 120 pesos per pound. These prices mirror the rampant inflation and the severe economic crisis gripping Cuba.
In a tropical nation where fruit should be abundant and affordable, enjoying a mango or purchasing a lemon has become a luxury that most Cubans simply cannot afford. The populace continues to grapple with shortages that severely impact their daily nutrition and overall quality of life.
Understanding the Price Surge in Cuban Markets
Why are mangoes so expensive in Cuba?
Mangoes are expensive due to inflation and the economic crisis in Cuba, which has led to increased costs of agricultural products.
How does the price of mangoes affect the Cuban population?
High mango prices make it difficult for Cubans to access this fruit, turning a basic food item into a luxury that many cannot afford.
What other products are seeing price hikes in Cuba?
In addition to mangoes, products such as lemons, cachucha peppers, bell peppers, and tomatoes are also experiencing significant price increases.