A Cuban woman recently shared a video revealing how a seemingly simple order of ice cream, which her family initially calculated based on state prices, resulted in a shocking total of 2,000 pesos. This hefty sum starkly contrasts with the average Cuban salary and the government's narrative of a system "of the humble, by the humble, and for the humble."
Yannelis Martínez Yero posted her account on Facebook, explaining that her father had ordered ten scoops of ice cream, believing each scoop to cost 45 pesos—the price he had paid the previous day for state-produced ice cream. To their surprise, the order from a private micro, small or medium-sized enterprise (mipyme) had each scoop priced at 200 pesos.
While Martínez Yero did not blame the provider, acknowledging it as a legitimate business, she questioned the affordability of such prices for the average Cuban worker. This situation highlights a common contradiction on the island, where the cost of goods and services steadily diverges from the earnings of much of the population.
According to the National Office of Statistics and Information (ONEI), the average state salary in Cuba was 7,354 pesos per month as of August, roughly equivalent to nine dollars at the informal exchange rate. With this income, a single 200-peso scoop of ice cream accounts for about 2.7% of the average monthly wage.
The disparity is even more pronounced when compared to independent estimates of living costs. A Cuban family reportedly needs around 96,000 pesos monthly to cover basic needs, approximately 14 times the official average salary, as estimated in June.
The Changing Landscape of La Arboleda
Visuals from La Arboleda, a once-bustling ice cream parlor now modernized with electric carts and new umbrellas, depict a nearly empty venue. This scene starkly contrasts with the long lines that historically defined the popular Santiago ice cream spot, and the memories of patrons who once enjoyed its offerings without incurring excessive expenses.
"We were happy with just five pesos at La Arboleda," reminisced one user. Another recalled when a scoop cost a mere 25 cents, while a local recounted approaching the parlor intending to buy, only to leave upon learning the price.
"Cuban quality; Dubai prices; maybe they'll rename it, it's no longer an ice cream parlor but a museum," joked another commenter.
Price Disparities in Santiago's Private Sector
Comments also pointed to even higher prices at other private establishments in the eastern city, such as one reportedly managed by musician Juan Guillermo Almeida, where the cheapest offering is said to be 600 pesos.
The responses underscore the disconnect between the cost of these products and consumers' purchasing power. "If we were truly paid for what we do at work, then 200 pesos wouldn't be a problem," noted one user.
Another summarized the issue more bluntly: "A completely impoverished people cannot afford 200 pesos for an ice cream scoop."
Martínez Yero ended her reflection with a poignant question about the gap between political promises and citizens' daily realities. "What happened to the idea of a system that claimed to be of the humble and for the humble? What stage are we in now?" she wrote.
Inflation and Economic Challenges
In August, Guantánamo's Dairy Products Company sparked outrage by selling its Anacaona ice cream exclusively in dollars at a Cimex chain store, excluding those paid in pesos. Meanwhile, in June, the Coppelia in Sancti Spíritus reopened with 125-peso scoops, minimal portions, and crystallized ice cream. Earlier in February, a family of six spent 4,200 pesos on ice cream after going five months without it.
Official annual inflation reached 28.44% in September, with food and beverages accounting for 73.39% of the monthly consumer price index variation.
Understanding Cuba's Economic Challenges
What is the average salary in Cuba?
As of August, the average state salary in Cuba was 7,354 pesos per month, approximately nine dollars at the informal exchange rate.
How does the cost of living compare to the average salary in Cuba?
Independent estimates suggest a Cuban family needs around 96,000 pesos monthly to cover basic needs, about 14 times the official average salary.
What caused controversy regarding ice cream prices in Cuba?
High prices at private vendors and the sale of ice cream exclusively in dollars at some outlets have sparked public outcry due to their inaccessibility to those paid in pesos.
How has inflation affected Cuba in recent months?
Cuba's annual inflation hit 28.44% in September, with food and beverages contributing to 73.39% of the monthly consumer price index changes.