While Cuban smokers face an increasing shortage of tobacco and exorbitant prices in the informal market, the Empresa de Cigarros Lázaro Peña enthusiastically celebrated having exceeded its Economic Technical Plan for January, reaching a production of over 253.6 million cigarettes.
"The commitment to you, Cuba, was unwavering," proclaimed the company in a message filled with triumphalism that contrasts sharply with the harsh reality of shortages in the markets.
The general director and several members of the Management Board participated in events to celebrate what they called a "victory over adversity," while in provinces such as Havana, Matanzas, and Villa Clara, a box of Criollos or Popular cigars can reach up to 500 pesos in the black market.
In the black market, the sale of cigarettes per unit ranges from 30 to 50 CUP, highlighting the rampant inflation affecting the country. The state-owned company itself acknowledged on its social media that despite meeting its targets, it is experiencing a "bad streak at the moment throughout the country."
Tabacuba asserts that it will be able to meet national demand in the first months of 2025, but the reality contradicts these claims.
The difficulties in production, caused by constant blackouts and the lack of spare parts for obsolete machinery, some of which have been in operation for over 80 years, continue to affect the distribution of cigars in the country.
As the situation worsens, senior executives appear at meetings that, instead of addressing the structural problems, turn into propaganda spectacles.
Marino Murillo, president of Tabacuba and a key figure in the failed monetary reform that worsened Cuba's economic crisis, led a recent meeting to "consolidate efforts," without tangible results for the population.
The increase in the official prices of cigarettes, justified by the government as a measure to cover production costs and support social expenses, has not curbed speculation either.
Resolution 63 from the Ministry of Finance and Prices established new values: packs of 20 Criollo, Titanes, and Popular cigarettes now cost 30 CUP, while the "Popular Auténtico" increased to 60 CUP.
However, these increases only reflect the failure of an economy unable to ensure basic supply.
The paradox of a company that celebrates its productive success while cigars are in short supply and sold at exorbitant prices on the black market reflects a nation caught between official rhetoric and harsh daily reality.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Cigarette Crisis and Inflation in Cuba
Why is there a shortage of cigarettes in Cuba?
The shortage of cigarettes in Cuba is due to difficulties in production, caused by constant blackouts and outdated machinery, some of which are over 80 years old. Although Tabacuba claims to meet its production plan, the reality of the market reflects a lack of supply.
What are the current prices of cigarettes in the Cuban black market?
In the black market, a box of cigarettes can cost up to 500 pesos, while the sale of cigarettes by the unit ranges between 30 and 50 CUP. These prices reflect the uncontrollable inflation in the country.
What has the Cuban government done to control cigarette prices?
The government increased the official prices of cigarettes through Resolution 63 of the Ministry of Finance and Prices, establishing a pack of 20 Criollo, Titanes, and Popular cigarettes at 30 CUP and the "Popular Auténtico" at 60 CUP. However, these measures have not curbed speculation or sales at exorbitant prices in the black market.
How does inflation affect access to basic goods in Cuba?
Inflation in Cuba has raised the prices of basic products such as food and cigarettes, making them unaffordable for many families. This phenomenon is due to the government's inefficiency in controlling inflation and the scarcity of products, which increases costs in the informal market.
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