Content creator Sheyla Reyes (@sheyreyes032) recently took to social media to highlight the outrageous costs of basic groceries in Cuba through a video she shared. "Buying food here is incredibly challenging due to the steep prices," Reyes remarked, illustrating what she managed to purchase with a staggering 18,000 Cuban pesos.
One of the most shocking prices was for an avocado. "It's like liquid gold. I paid 500 pesos for a single avocado. In Cuba, you can only afford this when it's in season. Take a look at this," she explained.
Among her other purchases were a liter of sunflower oil for 1,000 pesos, a carton of 30 eggs for 3,800 pesos, five pounds of pork for 3,750 pesos, and ten pounds of chicken mince for 2,800 pesos. The shopping also included green bananas, local natural yogurt, ham, and other essential items.
This scenario underscores the dire economic circumstances confronting Cuban families. With the average monthly salary hovering around 4,000 pesos, one would need at least four full wages to afford a similar grocery haul. This is in a setting plagued by inflation, shortages, and a dwindling purchasing power for citizens.
Cuban Economic Crisis and Grocery Prices
Why are food prices so high in Cuba?
Food prices in Cuba are exceptionally high due to inflation, scarcity of goods, and economic policies that have led to a weakened currency and limited imports.
What is the average monthly salary in Cuba?
The average monthly salary in Cuba is approximately 4,000 pesos, which makes it challenging for citizens to afford basic necessities given the current inflation and high cost of living.