During his visit to Sancti Spíritus, Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez made a stop at the state-run Meat Processing Unit. According to government reports, this facility is slowly recovering through production linkages and technological innovations aimed at keeping its machinery operational. However, the reality for the residents of Sancti Spíritus starkly contrasts with the regime's optimistic declarations.
For the majority of Cubans, meat has become a luxury due to exorbitant prices and limited availability. In Cuba, a pound of beef costs about 2,755 Cuban pesos, pork is around 1,400 pesos, and mutton exceeds 700 pesos. These prices are staggering compared to the average monthly salaries, which hover around 4,200 pesos, and pensions, which do not exceed 1,500 pesos.
The Government's Alternative: Bones and Byproducts for the People
During his visit, Díaz-Canel was briefed on the future work plans of the Meat Processing Unit. Yet, the production numbers fall woefully short of meeting the people's needs; most of the meat products are allocated for tourism and state-controlled social consumption.
As authorities emphasize "production advancements," the Cuban populace grapples with an increasingly severe food crisis. In August, reports emerged about the unsanitary conditions under which bones, cow feet, and tripe are sold. In Old Havana, a truck from the Artemisa slaughterhouse sold these items without refrigeration, exposed to the sun, and lacking basic hygiene standards. Despite prices exceeding 150 pesos per pound, families purchase them in desperation to put food on their tables.
Tourism Over Citizens: A Misguided Priority
While Cubans struggle to access basic foodstuffs, hotels catering to tourists receive tons of top-quality meat. This policy, which has been in place for years, prioritizes tourism profits over the nutritional needs of the citizens, perpetuating an inequality the government seems to overlook.
Díaz-Canel's visit to Sancti Spíritus only serves as a stark reminder of the profound shortages faced by the Cuban people. Despite official figures suggesting progress, meat production remains out of reach for those who need it most. Interestingly, during the leader's time in the province, social media users noted that there were no reported power outages.