The Provincial Food Company in Matanzas announced on Monday that the bread production intended for the basic food basket and other social consumption is hindered by a shortage of wheat flour. This marks yet another chapter in the regime's persistent failure to ensure the populace's food supply. In its official statement, the organization revealed that as an "alternative," they are offering 120-gram bread made with flour from small and medium-sized enterprises, priced at 65 pesos, available in all municipalities, though likely out of reach for many families.
Furthermore, in the provincial capital, a package of cookies is being distributed to each family unit at a cost of 850 pesos. This is presented as another "alternative." According to the statement, the Cuban Bread Enterprise Unit continues its production efforts, yet it fails to meet the demand associated with the regulated basic basket.
This temporary solution has sparked discontent among the residents of Matanzas, who are grappling with escalating prices for essential goods. Roberto Rebelde expressed his frustration, stating, "The real issue is the shamelessness of the officials and so-called leaders, which affects the people in every aspect of our social life." He further added, "They should be ashamed for not even being able to provide us with a decent quality loaf of bread, let alone a simple glass of milk."
Echoing this sentiment, Luis Yudier Gutiérrez Martínez commented, "A complete lack of respect, they offer bread at 65 pesos and a packet of cookies at 850 pesos, how far will this disrespect go?" Cary Díaz Fariñas also voiced her indignation: "Selling a packet of cookies for 850 pesos is outrageous. Can retirees or other low-income individuals, like the majority of the population, afford this?"
As subsidized bread becomes increasingly scarce, families are forced to resort to much pricier alternatives, exacerbating public dissatisfaction and the effects of inflation in daily life. The bread crisis in Cuba extends beyond Matanzas. In Santiago de Cuba, consumers reported that wheat flour shortages are being compensated with offers of extended minced meat, a move that further highlighted the government's inability to provide basic foodstuffs.
The situation is similarly dire in other provinces. In Ciego de Ávila, regulated bread began being sold on alternate days, leading to long lines and growing public discontent over the deteriorating basic food basket. Even local authorities have opted for price hikes. In Guantánamo, the government has set new prices for bread, making it more expensive for a product that was once a staple in the daily diet.
A comparable approach was adopted in Artemisa, where regulated bread was rationed on alternating days as a supposed strategy to "stretch" the flour supply, although in practice, it meant more shortages for families.
Understanding the Bread Shortage Crisis in Cuba
What is causing the bread shortage in Matanzas?
The bread shortage in Matanzas is primarily due to a lack of wheat flour, a result of the regime's continued inability to secure essential food supplies for the population.
How are the authorities attempting to address the bread shortage?
Authorities are offering alternatives such as 120-gram bread made with flour from small enterprises at 65 pesos and distributing cookies at 850 pesos per family unit, though these solutions have been met with public discontent.
What impact is the bread shortage having on the population?
The shortage is forcing families to turn to more costly alternatives, deepening inflation's impact and increasing public frustration as essential goods become less accessible.