Mario J. Pentón, a well-known journalist, reported on Monday that a high-ranking insider within ETECSA confirmed the company’s decision not to roll back the recent surge in charges for its key telecommunications services, including international dollar recharges. According to Pentón’s Facebook post, this decision was made at the national level, indicating it's not merely a commercial tactic but a state-endorsed policy by the highest echelons of the Cuban regime, despite public backlash and student protests.
In an attempt to soften the blow, ETECSA is reportedly considering easing restrictions on the Nauta Hogar service, which provides fixed internet connections in homes. However, this so-called consolation prize lacks significant impact, as most Cuban households suffer from frequent power outages, lack the necessary technical infrastructure, or do not possess the equipment needed to benefit from the service. Pentón summarized it succinctly: “It’s another band-aid for a reality that’s falling apart,” highlighting the disconnect between the state-run company’s decisions and the Cuban people's real needs.
As internet access becomes more costly and mobile connectivity is increasingly dollarized, ETECSA is attempting to portray this measure as a technical concession. But in reality, making an already inaccessible service slightly more flexible does not mitigate the weight of the rate hikes nor address the severe technological inequality plaguing the nation.
Amidst the ongoing controversy surrounding the recent increase in mobile service rates, Cuba’s telecom monopoly has announced a new approach to home internet access. However, details about its operation and pricing remain scarce. During a segment on the Mesa Redonda program, the company's commercial vice president, Lidia Esther Hidalgo, revealed that a new, optional Nauta Hogar service would be unveiled this summer, as reported by Prensa Latina. This service, which utilizes ADSL technology, offers plans based on contracted hours, though it has been heavily criticized for high costs and technical limitations.
The vague announcement has sparked concern among the population, especially after the recent hike in mobile data internet prices. Now, many users are more reliant on Nauta Hogar to connect, leading to fears of further restrictions or price increases within this system. According to Hidalgo, the new offer aims to suit various customer consumption profiles, a claim met with skepticism given the unpopularity of recent changes. “Some use up all their hours, others don’t. We think we have a pretty interesting offer,” she stated.
Implications of ETECSA's New Internet Policies
What is the main reason ETECSA is not reversing its rate increase?
The decision to maintain the rate increase is a state-backed policy, decided at the national level, indicating it is not a mere commercial strategy but a broader government directive.
What are the challenges with the Nauta Hogar service?
The Nauta Hogar service is hindered by frequent power outages, lack of technical infrastructure, and the unavailability of necessary equipment in most Cuban homes, making it ineffective for many users.
Why is there skepticism about the new Nauta Hogar offer?
The skepticism stems from the unpopularity of recent changes and the lack of concrete details about the new offer, leading to doubts about its effectiveness and fairness.