Outrage Erupts Over ETECSA's International Recharge Offer for Father's Day

A recent international recharge promotion launched by ETECSA to celebrate Father's Day has sparked a wave of criticism from Cubans both domestically and abroad. The state-run telecommunications company is being accused of exploiting emotional ties with emigrants while excluding those without family remittances. The backlash erupted across social media as users became aware of the pricing and conditions of this offer.

Pricey Offer Sparks Backlash

From June 9 to June 15, ETECSA is offering 25 GB for all networks and unlimited browsing during the early hours for 35 days. However, to access this "promotion," relatives overseas must pay $65.99 for a 1,500 CUP recharge. The minimum charge for any international top-up during this period is $21.99 for just 500 CUP.

For many Cubans, this pricing scheme makes little sense. "In Cuba, that offer would cost around 5,000 CUP, which at the informal exchange rate is about $12.50. But ETECSA charges $22 abroad. Where's the profit?" remarked one user.

Instead of enthusiasm, the campaign has met with anger. Several internet users have called outright for a boycott. "Don't recharge!" "This offer is useless," "Don't be complicit in the abuse." Others demanded the return of more affordable past promotions: "Where's the 6,000 fixed one? That was useful."

Criticism of Economic Disconnect

The harshest critique centers on the disconnect between this offer and the economic reality faced by most. "I can't pay for that; I'd rather use the money to buy food," commented one individual.

Another user was more direct: "The shamelessness is a clear symptom of the regime's desperation for dollars. Say how much you want, take it ALL, but let the people LIVE!"

Comments also reflected frustration from those without anyone abroad to send them recharges. "And what about us with no one outside? Do we not exist?" questioned one internet user. "Enough with offering services in foreign currency. We live in pesos here," pointed out another Cuban.

A Strategy Losing Steam

The offer is not only deemed abusive but also a stark reminder of the inequalities in access to connectivity on the island. The ability to stay connected often depends on the financial support of someone living abroad.

With this promotion, ETECSA seems to continue relying on the revenue model through emigrant transfers, capitalizing on sensitive occasions like Father's Day. However, the strategy appears to be wearing thin. Many Cubans no longer see these promotions as helpful but rather as emotional blackmail disguised as "gifts."

"Remember, turning the screw doesn't mean there will always be a thread," warned a commentator. With growing public discontent, it seems that thread is increasingly worn out.

The measure comes just days after ETECSA's executive president, Tania Velázquez, acknowledged on the official podcast Desde la Presidencia that the average income per mobile line in Cuba fell from $133 in 2018 to just $31 in 2024.

She attributed this decline to "fraud" and the "hijacking of international recharges," indirectly blaming users for seeking cheaper recharge alternatives within the country.

Outrage isn't limited to the international recharge market. Within Cuba, the new national prices, known as the "tarifazo," have sparked public protests, even in traditionally silenced spaces like universities.

Youth have denounced the lack of transparency, absence of citizen consultation, and the violation of the right to connectivity. In their statements, they even demanded the resignation of the national president of the Federation of University Students (FEU), Ricardo Rodríguez, for not firmly defending students' demands.