The Cuban regime's Minister of Telecommunications, Mayra Arevich Marín, has defended the recent price hike by ETECSA, asserting that public concerns are being taken into account. "The newly implemented commercial measures by ETECSA are essential for maintaining the telecommunications infrastructure, supporting national development, ensuring cybersecurity, and providing quality services to the people," she stated in a series of posts on X.
According to Arevich Marín, "Public opinions on the new ETECSA commercial measures are being considered, and coordinated actions are being taken with the Party, the Government, various organizations, and regions to address these concerns."
On Friday, ETECSA imposed a limit on Cuban peso (CUP) top-ups to a maximum of 360 within 30 days. This has forced users to opt for larger data packages priced in U.S. dollars (USD) or at exorbitant CUP costs, drawing criticism for excluding those without access to foreign currency.
Cubans lacking access to USD and unable to afford an additional 3GB for over 3,000 CUP are left with only a 6GB package for 360 CUP per month, which is insufficient for daily internet needs. This decision exacerbates inequality and restricts connectivity for a significant segment of the population.
The policy has sparked widespread outrage and criticism, even from within the official ranks. On Saturday, the Federation of University Students (FEU) from various faculties of the University of Havana and the Higher Institute of International Relations (ISRI) issued a joint statement openly opposing the new tariffs.
In a rare critical stance from an organization traditionally aligned with the government since the triumph of the so-called "revolution," students condemned ETECSA’s "price hike" for infringing on their fundamental rights to information, education, and communication, which are critical for their academic development.
Regime spokespersons, such as Ernesto Limia and Buena Fe singer Israel Rojas, have also voiced opposition to the price hike amid the widespread public discontent.
Public Response to ETECSA Price Increase
Why did ETECSA limit top-ups in Cuban pesos?
ETECSA limited top-ups in Cuban pesos to a maximum of 360 within 30 days to push users towards purchasing larger data packages in U.S. dollars or at higher CUP costs, which has been justified by the government as necessary for telecommunications infrastructure sustainability.
What impact does the ETECSA price hike have on the Cuban population?
The price hike limits connectivity options for many Cubans, especially those without access to foreign currency, thereby deepening existing inequalities and restricting access to necessary internet services.
How have students reacted to ETECSA's pricing changes?
Students, particularly from the University of Havana and the Higher Institute of International Relations, have openly criticized the pricing changes, highlighting that they infringe on essential rights to information and education.