A Cuban woman has stirred up TikTok by sharing a video where she highlights the stark reality that toilet paper has become a luxury item in Cuba due to its soaring cost compared to state wages. "While this might just be a simple item to clean yourself with, for us, it's a luxury because today it costs more than half of a minimum wage," she stated, symbolically draping a strip of toilet paper around her neck in the video.
She pointed out that the inability to purchase such a basic product forces many Cuban families to resort to alternative methods like using old newspapers, outdated school notebooks, or even leaves from trees. With a tone filled with directness and frustration, the woman emphasized the vast difference between what is considered basic elsewhere in the world and what is deemed a luxury under Cuba's current economic conditions.
"If you've watched this far, don't forget to follow me, because while nothing may be happening to you, it certainly is for me. Your support would mean a lot," she concluded, appealing to the empathy of users outside Cuba.
In Cuba, the minimum wage is approximately 2,100 Cuban pesos, whereas a roll of toilet paper can exceed 1,200 CUP on the informal market, starkly illustrating the precariousness and declining purchasing power of citizens. The original video was posted on the TikTok account @darlinmedina931 and quickly went viral due to its raw message and the harsh reality it depicts.
Understanding the Economic Challenges in Cuba
Why is toilet paper considered a luxury in Cuba?
Toilet paper is considered a luxury in Cuba because its cost on the informal market is significantly high compared to the average Cuban salary, making it unaffordable for many families.
What alternatives do Cubans use due to the high cost of toilet paper?
Due to the high cost of toilet paper, many Cubans use alternative methods such as old newspapers, outdated school notebooks, or even leaves from trees.
How much is the minimum wage in Cuba?
The minimum wage in Cuba is approximately 2,100 Cuban pesos.