ETECSA Introduces a 1,200-Peso Mobile Data Plan Amid Public Discontent

The Cuban telecommunications giant, Empresa de Telecomunicaciones de Cuba S.A. (ETECSA), unveiled a new mobile data plan offering 2 GBs for 1,200 Cuban pesos, starting June 20. This seems to be a direct reaction to the rising public outcry over the exorbitant costs of mobile internet services on the island. Dubbed the "Additional Plan," this package can be purchased once a month, valid for 35 days, via Transfermóvil and Online Services.

According to an official statement from ETECSA, this new package will complement the existing data resources on a user's line, extending their utility. ETECSA described the plan as a response to widespread public demand. "The new commercial offer considered feedback from various sectors of the population, which predominantly called for a plan priced lower than the EXTRA Data plans," the statement noted.

The state-run company acknowledged that the new plan might not meet the needs of all users, but asserted that "under current conditions, it is the feasible solution to enhance customer connectivity." Additionally, ETECSA reminded the public of an ongoing plan specifically for university students, known as the "Sectorial Plan," which will appear in purchase menus following data validation with universities. Eligible students will be notified via SMS.

Public Backlash: Overpriced and Insufficient

Despite the offer, numerous Cubans expressed their outrage on social media, where the announcement faced widespread criticism. Common grievances included the meager data bundle and its hefty cost in national currency, especially given that the average Cuban salary barely exceeds 4,000 CUP.

"Paying 1,200 CUP for 2 GB shows a lack of consideration for the working class without access to MLC or dollars. The sole telecom provider in Cuba has become unbearable, neither socialist nor humane, but a neoliberal burden," one user commented on X.

Others were more outspoken: "1,200 CUP for just 2 GBs is an insult. How long will we stand by as they mock us? We are Cubans, let's find the courage like our ancestors and stop letting them laugh at us. ¡Patria y Vida!"

Another individual lamented, "What is 2 GB in 2025? Practically nothing, two visits to YouTube or Instagram and it's gone. Plus, they charge you 1,200 pesos for it." Some also pointed out that connectivity issues are exacerbated by frequent power outages across the country.

Shifting Towards Dollar-Based Plans

This new plan's release follows ETECSA's recent introduction of commercial measures that further dollarize mobile services in Cuba. Since May 30, users can top up their main balance in CUP up to a maximum of 360 pesos every 30 days. Meanwhile, most data plans must be purchased in U.S. dollars (USD), through international cards or the MiTransfer Wallet.

While options in Cuban pesos are either reduced or more expensive, ETECSA promotes dollar-centric plans such as:

• 4 GB for 10 USD
• 8 GB + 75 MIN + 80 SMS for 20 USD
• 16 GB for 35 USD

Although the company still offers some plans in CUP (like 3 GB for 3,360 CUP and 15 GB for 11,760 CUP), these are unaffordable for most Cubans, whose earnings fall short, particularly without remittances or foreign currency access.

ETECSA claims to be "working hand in hand with the people" to overcome current challenges, yet many Cubans feel the state enterprise has lost touch with the majority's economic reality.