The specter of the dollar haunts Cuban kitchens once more, sparking a social media frenzy over alleged plans to sell liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in USD, as part of a broader dollarization move in the nation.
The uproar began after Directorio Cubano, an online publication, suggested that selling LPG in USD had been proposed in Cuba. This report aligns with the ongoing dollarization trend burdening the average Cuban citizen. A suggestion from a social media user, who questioned the erratic availability of LPG cylinders, further fueled the debate: why not sell them in dollars?
Another user echoed this idea, pointing out that since other products were already being sold in USD stores, LPG could be included. The article quickly became a digital storm, inciting public outcry, complaints, and particularly fear that gas would join the long list of goods and services available only in MLC or USD.
In response to the turmoil, the Territorial Fuel Commercialization Directorate (DTCC) of Las Tunas issued a statement to refute the claim unequivocally:
"Good morning, dear customers. There has been a spread of false information claiming that Unión Cuba-Petróleo (CUPET) will begin selling Liquefied Petroleum Gas in USD as part of the nation’s dollarization. This information is baseless, fabricated to generate negative public opinion, and create apathy and uncertainty. Our organization relies on formal national media for our communications, and this is not from our Union," stated the state entity.
This incident is not just a case of fake news; it mirrors the rising discontent and economic uncertainty among a populace weary of surviving amid blackouts, inflation, and monetary duality, unsure of which service will next be "dollarized."
Since late 2024, LPG distribution has been inconsistent due to financial difficulties impacting payments to international suppliers. This has resulted in partial fuel deliveries and limited distribution across several provinces. For instance, in January 2025, Ciego de Ávila restricted LPG sales to one cylinder every two months due to inventory shortages and irregular supply.
A month later, the government introduced new regulations for LPG services, claiming they were part of a plan for "more efficient use of energy and fuels." These measures included adjustments to contracts and service distribution.
Moreover, corruption cases have surfaced within the LPG distribution framework. The latest example involves the Empresa de Gas Licuado de La Habana, where CUPET executives were implicated in a scheme. The scandal involved systematic resource diversion and collusion with CUPET officials, who allegedly received bribes from an employee to facilitate irregular contracts and conceal their actions.
Understanding Cuba's LPG Distribution Challenges
What sparked the rumor about LPG being sold in USD in Cuba?
The rumor was fueled by an article from Directorio Cubano suggesting a proposal to sell LPG in USD, aligning with Cuba's increasing dollarization. This was further amplified by social media discussions about the erratic availability of LPG cylinders.
How did CUPET respond to the LPG sale rumor?
CUPET's Territorial Fuel Commercialization Directorate in Las Tunas issued a statement, categorically denying the false information and clarifying that the organization relies on formal media channels for official communications.
What are the current challenges in LPG distribution in Cuba?
Since late 2024, financial issues have disrupted payments to international suppliers, leading to sporadic LPG deliveries and limited distribution, as seen in provinces like Ciego de Ávila.
What corruption issues have been reported in Cuba's LPG distribution?
Recent corruption cases involve CUPET officials in Havana, implicated in a scheme involving resource diversion and irregular contracts facilitated by bribery.