Amidst a worsening economic crisis and growing public dissatisfaction, the Cuban leadership has officially acknowledged that the nation's economic recovery is far from reach. "Much work remains," Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz admitted on Wednesday as he presented the results of the so-called “Government Program to Correct Distortions and Revitalize the Economy” to the National Assembly of People’s Power.
Despite being cloaked in triumphalist rhetoric, this admission highlights the deterioration of the current economic model and the government's inability to reverse a situation marked by prolonged power outages, shortages, rampant inflation, and increasing uncertainty about the future, which many Cubans endure daily.
Government's Economic Plan: Numbers vs. Reality
During his address at the Palace of Conventions, Marrero outlined the figures of the new government plan: 10 general objectives, 87 specific targets, 230 goals and indicators, and 269 actions. Yet, beyond the slides and statistics, the national economy remains stagnant.
The week began with grim news: Cuba's economy contracted again in 2024, with a 1.1% GDP decline, according to Economy Minister Joaquín Alonso. "What the country earns today is not even enough for basic inputs," he admitted in a rare moment of candor before Parliament.
Energy Crisis and Economic Challenges
Alonso conceded that there is neither fuel nor parts to keep the thermoelectric plants operational; the electrical generation system teeters on the edge of collapse, and exports met only 62% of the plan. "We've lacked energy, and without energy, development is impossible," he stated.
Adding to the day's candid confessions, President Miguel Díaz-Canel acknowledged that the nation's revenue is insufficient even for raw materials, and current policies merely "redistribute scarcity."
U.S. Blamed Yet Again
Meanwhile, prior to Wednesday’s plenary session, the National Assembly issued a statement once again attributing Cuba's crisis to the United States. The document labeled U.S. policy as “genocidal” and accused Washington of waging “an economic, commercial, and financial war” aimed at collapsing the system.
However, for many both inside and outside the island, these explanations are increasingly unconvincing. On social media, Cubans have responded with skepticism to official figures and recycled promises. "Now the blackouts, hunger, and misery are truly going to end," journalist José Raúl Gallego quipped, sharing the government’s presentation.
The Lingering Question on Every Cuban's Mind
With a government program that promises change but recycles old formulas, and an economy in freefall, the question lingering in the air is the same one millions of Cubans are asking: How much longer?
While indicators, goals, and objectives are debated at the Palace of Conventions, on the streets of Cuba, essentials like bread, oil, medicine, electricity, and hope remain scarce.
Understanding Cuba's Economic Struggles
What are the main challenges facing Cuba's economy?
Cuba's economy is facing several challenges including prolonged power outages, shortages of essential goods, rampant inflation, and a lack of energy resources. These issues are compounded by an outdated economic model and insufficient revenue to cover basic needs.
How has the Cuban government responded to the economic crisis?
The Cuban government has introduced a new program with several objectives and actions aimed at revitalizing the economy. However, the effectiveness of these measures remains in question as the country continues to face significant economic challenges.
What role does the United States play in Cuba's economic situation?
The Cuban government attributes part of its economic woes to the United States, accusing it of enforcing a "genocidal" policy and an economic blockade aimed at destabilizing the system. However, this explanation is met with skepticism by many.