A young Cuban man took to TikTok to highlight the sky-high prices of footwear in a Cuban store, declaring shoes as "one of the priciest items" currently available in the country. The content creator, known as Yoel Daniel (@yoel_daniel0), shared his experience, "Yesterday, my partner and I went out to buy soap because we had run out. We happened to pass by a small shop selling shoes and sandals," he recounted. "My shoes are barely holding up, and my sandals are falling apart," he added.
The video, which has sparked reactions across social media, showcases a variety of shoe models along with their respective prices, which many Cubans find unattainable. "This pair I’m holding right now costs 25,000 pesos, roughly equivalent to 70 U.S. dollars. These over here are priced at 12,000 pesos, which is about 33 dollars, and others are around 14,000 pesos, equating to 35 dollars," detailed Yoel as he displayed several pairs of sneakers.
This content underscores the purchasing power crisis in Cuba, where national currency salaries fall short in meeting essential needs like footwear. "It occurred to me to create a video to show one of the most expensive things sold in Cuba - shoes," the TikToker concluded.
The Economic Reality of Shopping in Cuba
Why are shoe prices so high in Cuba?
Shoe prices in Cuba are high due to a combination of economic factors, including limited supply, import restrictions, and the devaluation of the Cuban peso against foreign currencies.
How does the cost of shoes impact the daily lives of Cubans?
The high cost of shoes can significantly strain the budgets of Cuban families, making it difficult to afford basic necessities and forcing many to prioritize essential goods over footwear.
What are the average salaries in Cuba compared to these prices?
The average salary in Cuba is far below what is needed to afford these high-priced shoes, with many workers earning only a few thousand pesos per month, making such purchases nearly impossible.