The Carlos III shopping center, once a bustling hub in Havana, now presents a starkly different scene: empty, silent, and with shelves stripped bare.
A video shared on TikTok by user @rossy8972 captures the empty corridors of the mall, with only a few scattered workers and isolated customers, a stark contrast to the usual crowds that used to fill this commercial hotspot.
Filmed from the upper floors of the building, the video showcases the facility's deterioration and the absence of activity in its stores. The once-popular gallery, known for its electronic stores, clothing outlets, and bustling food court, now appears to be caught in a state of neglect and scarcity, reflecting the broader issues plaguing the island.
Carlos III, which was once a key player in the trade of freely convertible currency (MLC), now faces the same challenges gripping the rest of the nation: shortages of basic goods, unaffordable prices, and a dwindling purchasing power among Cubans.
The bleak scene at the shopping center mirrors Cuba's deep economic crisis, marked by power outages, rampant inflation, and a massive population exodus. These factors have left not only store shelves empty but also streets and public spaces.
The footage from Carlos III has gone viral on social media, serving as a potent symbol of a country where there is increasingly less to buy and fewer people able to afford it.
The Economic Crisis and Its Impact on Cuba's Shopping Centers
What has caused the decline of the Carlos III shopping center?
The decline of Carlos III is due to Cuba's severe economic crisis, characterized by shortages, inflation, and reduced purchasing power among the population.
How has social media reacted to the situation at Carlos III?
Social media has reacted strongly, with the video of the empty shopping center going viral as a symbol of the widespread scarcity and economic hardship in Cuba.
What does the emptiness of Carlos III signify for Cuba?
The emptiness of Carlos III signifies the broader economic and social challenges facing Cuba, including shortages, power outages, and emigration.