The Ministry of Domestic Trade (MINCIN) has announced a so-called "positive development" this Thursday: the return of domestically produced beans to the rationing system, albeit in a controlled manner. In Havana, consumers will be allowed to purchase one pound per person, with purchases recorded in the ration book.
According to MINCIN's official statement on Facebook, this measure aims to improve access to beans, a staple in the Cuban diet, while also "preventing hoarding." Despite the ministry's claims, this move does little to address the severe shortages plaguing the nation.
The price set for each pound of beans is 196 Cuban pesos, as outlined in the Republic's Official Gazette. MINCIN clarified that this offering is supplemental and does not replace the limited grains included in the government-mandated family basket, providing consumers an additional purchasing option.
Sales will be conducted in all neighborhood stores throughout Havana, based on each household's registered information. The distribution period is scheduled to last 15 days from the start date at each location, allowing for staggered access and maintaining process control.
While the regime touts this as a revolutionary achievement, the reality is that selling beans at 196 pesos per pound on the ration book offers only a token respite amidst Cuba's dire food crisis. On the informal market, the price of beans has soared to 350 pesos per pound in areas such as Cienfuegos, highlighting rampant inflation in essential goods.
Despite governmental efforts to impose price caps, including those announced by the Ministry of Finance and Prices for rice and beans, these have failed to curb inflation or ensure sufficient supply. The scarcity of grains has even necessitated imports from South America, with Argentina shipping 10,000 tons of black beans to Cuba, underscoring the nation's lack of self-sufficiency in key dietary items.
The vulnerability of Cuba's state-run distribution network was starkly revealed less than a year ago when the rationed basket collapsed due to shortages of coffee, oil, and beans, leaving millions of Cubans without even a meager portion of these staples.
Understanding the Cuban Rationing System
What is the significance of beans in the Cuban diet?
Beans are a fundamental part of the Cuban diet, providing essential protein and nutrients. They are a staple food item in many Cuban dishes.
Why is the sale of beans on the ration book considered a positive development?
The sale of beans on the ration book is seen as a positive development because it aims to ensure equitable access to this essential food item amidst widespread shortages.
How does inflation affect the price of beans in Cuba?
Inflation has drastically increased the price of beans in Cuba, with prices on the informal market far exceeding the government's controlled price of 196 pesos per pound.