ETCSA's Justification for New Dollarization Measures

The Cuban telecommunications company, Empresa de Telecomunicaciones de Cuba S.A (ETECSA), unveiled a series of new measures on May 30 that further integrate dollarization into mobile service accessibility across the island. These changes have sparked immediate backlash among the public, with many denouncing the move as unfair, exclusionary, and contrary to equitable connectivity access in Cuba.

ETECSA Claims "Boosting New Revenue Streams"

Following a wave of criticism on social media, ETECSA responded directly to some users to clarify the reasoning behind their decision. Addressing concerns from a user who questioned why recharges in Cuban pesos (CUP) are being limited while promoting more purchases, the state-run company replied: "We aim to ensure affordable data consumption levels and to boost new revenue streams for higher usage. For VOICE and SMS services, unlimited options are available."

To another critic who highlighted the poor service quality and urged investment in renewable energy-powered antennas, ETECSA stated, "These measures are being implemented to enhance new revenue sources that will enable ETECSA to sustain, develop, and expand the various telecommunications services in the country." This promise to "boost new revenue streams" for service improvement has been met with skepticism and laughter among many Cubans familiar with ETECSA's shortcomings. One user humorously noted, "Watch out AT&T! Watch out Vodafone! ETECSA doesn't cry, ETECSA profits."

Limit on Cuban Peso Recharges: A Major Setback

A key aspect of this announcement is the restriction on recharges in national currency. From now on, prepaid service customers can only add up to 360 CUP to their main balance within a 30-day period. This move directly impacts those without access to US dollars or foreign currency. Responding to queries such as that from user Adriana González, ETECSA confirmed: "The maximum amount allowed for national recharges is 360 CUP over 30 days."

Dollar-Priced Plans: The New Reality

While limiting CUP usage, ETECSA introduced new Extra Data Plans priced in USD, available only through international cards or the MiTransfer Wallet. The rates are: 4 GB for 10 USD; 8 GB + 75 MIN + 80 SMS for 20 USD; 16 GB for 35 USD. These packages include an additional 300 MB for national browsing. Although they can be purchased at ETECSA's commercial offices, access is restricted for many Cubans without international connections or foreign currency access.

Overpriced CUP Plans: Out of Reach for Most

Additionally, ETECSA announced new data packages in CUP, but at prices deemed exorbitant: 3 GB for 3,360 CUP; 7 GB for 6,720 CUP; 15 GB for 11,760 CUP. All plans include 300 MB of national browsing and are valid for 2G, 3G, and 4G networks. However, these prices far exceed the country's minimum wage, making them unaffordable for the majority of Cubans. Despite this, the company maintains CUP pricing for the toDus Messaging Bag, voice plans, and SMS.

Public Outcry: "Daylight Robbery" and Growing Inequality

ETECSA's explanations failed to convince the majority of users, who vehemently expressed their discontent on social media. Cubans are outraged by what they see as a move to further exacerbate inequality. Concerns about access to education and remote work have been voiced: "I'm a web developer... I needed several recharges a month. Now I can't work"; "This limits learning for professionals and students. It's a terrible decision"; "How will students download literature if there aren't even physical books?" noted three commentators.

Questions and frustrations are mounting: "How tight do they intend to pull the rope?"; "They provide poor service and want to demand more... stop money laundering"; "A 3,360 CUP plan costs more than the minimum wage. Who is this supposed to benefit?" others commented. "Now it's back to snail mail, smoke signals, and Hatuey rising. Cuba is progressing," concluded another user sarcastically.

The discontent is especially pronounced among those who do not receive remittances or have access to the foreign currency market, further entrenching the digital and economic divide within the island. While ETECSA reiterates its commitment to offering services in national currency and supporting vulnerable social sectors, the new provisions confirm a shift towards partial dollarization of internet and mobile phone access in Cuba. This process, set against an increasingly complex economic backdrop, represents an additional barrier for the most impoverished segments of the population and consolidates an unequal access structure to what ought to be an essential public service.