A Cuban citizen shared on social media her experience visiting a store in Holguín that only accepts payments in cash in US dollars or through international cards such as MasterCard, Visa, MIR, or UnionPay.
"Dollarization is taking over Cuba," wrote user @kary_y_jony in a video posted on TikTok, where they described their experience in a store recently incorporated into the model of shops that operate exclusively in foreign currency. The footage shows the entrance sign with the logos of the accepted payment methods, making it clear that payments cannot be made in Cuban pesos.
In her account, the young woman remarked that the products were the same as in previous times, when they were sold in CUC or MLC, but now only in dollars. She noted that she found little variety, shelves with repeated items, and prices that were elevated for most Cubans. “Disposable diapers cost almost 10 dollars; Café Serrano was over 7 dollars; national soft drinks, which hadn’t been seen for a long time, were available for sale,” she detailed. She also mentioned that the home appliances section had very few items available.
His testimony adds to a wave of citizen reports that reflect the conditions in these establishments. Among them are the documented experiences in similar stores such as the shopping center 5ta y 96 in Havana, the Nuevo Boulevard store in Ciego de Ávila, or Variedades Siboney in Villa Clara.
In February, the supermarket at 3rd and 70 in Havana was also opened, which some have described as “the Cuban Walmart,” where prices as high as 146 dollars for a piece of Serrano ham or over 70 for cheese have been documented. This same store recently had a bag of national potatoes for 8.85 dollars on sale.
The phenomenon is framed within the official recognition of a “partial dollarization” of the economy, confirmed by the ruler Miguel Díaz-Canel in recent statements. The Ministry of Domestic Trade (MINCIN) has announced the opening of more than 50 stores of this type, in a strategy aimed at attracting foreign currency amid rampant inflation and the collapse of the distribution system in pesos.
Similar criticisms have been expressed following the opening of a perfumery store in dollars on San Rafael Boulevard or the opening of stores in Holguín, which have generated complaints about prices such as brooms at 5.65 USD or products that provide change in candy.
As these stores continue to proliferate and offer better selections, most Cubans survive on a salary in Cuban pesos, which currently amounts to less than 20 dollars a month, exacerbating social disparities and daily frustrations.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dollarization and Inequality in Cuba
How does dollarization affect the Cuban economy?
The partial dollarization of the Cuban economy has intensified social inequalities, as most Cubans receive their salaries in Cuban pesos, a currency that is becoming increasingly devalued. This limits their access to basic goods that can only be purchased in dollars, exacerbating the economic and social crisis on the island.
What are the criticisms of dollar stores in Cuba?
Criticism of stores that operate exclusively in dollars focuses on the fact that they exclude the majority of the population, who do not have access to this currency. High prices and the lack of payment options in the national currency widen economic and social gaps, generating frustration and discontent among Cubans.
What impact does the opening of dollar stores have on the informal currency market in Cuba?
The opening of dollar stores has increased the demand for this currency in the informal market, leading to a rise in exchange rates for the dollar and the euro. This situation further complicates access to foreign currency for the average Cuban, eroding the purchasing power of remittances and exacerbating the economic crisis.
What products are sold in the dollar stores in Cuba?
The dollar stores in Cuba offer a variety of both national and imported products, including food, beverages, personal care items, and appliances. However, the prices are high and unaffordable for most Cubans, which limits access to these products to those who have access to foreign currency.
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