A woman from Guanabo, located in the Habana del Este municipality, has gained viral attention on TikTok after sharing her insights on Cuba's economy. Despite the ongoing crisis, she claims that "some people have money," but they are not representative of the general population.
"Sweetie, there are people here with money, but it's not the norm. Some have family abroad who support them financially or set up a small business for them," the young woman remarked in a video shared on her @gelylaflaki account.
She elaborated that she lives in a tourist area of Guanabo, where many seemingly luxurious properties are owned by Cubans residing overseas. "I don't know how Cubans get money, but they do spend it. Here, a nice house can go for $150 a day, and those renting them out are Cubans who live abroad and visit with their families," she stated.
According to her, in Cuba, "some people seem well-off" thanks to remittances or tourism-related income, but the reality for most is starkly different: "There are far more people without money, money, than those who have it," she concluded.
The video, which has amassed tens of thousands of views, has sparked online discussions. Many users agree that the appearance of prosperity in certain tourist areas stands in contrast to the widespread poverty and scarcity affecting the Cuban people.
In recent years, remittances and the emergence of private businesses have enabled a small segment of the population to access goods and services beyond the reach of the majority.
Nevertheless, the severe economic crisis, along with high prices and inflation in Cuban pesos, has left the rest of the population grappling with increasing social inequality.
Understanding Cuba's Economic Disparity
What factors contribute to the economic disparity in Cuba?
The economic disparity in Cuba is largely driven by remittances from abroad, the emergence of private businesses, and a struggling economy marked by high inflation and scarce resources.
How do remittances impact the Cuban economy?
Remittances provide financial support to families in Cuba, allowing some to access goods and services that are otherwise unaffordable. This creates an economic divide between those who receive remittances and those who do not.
What role do private businesses play in Cuba's economy?
Private businesses offer economic opportunities and can improve access to services and goods, contributing to a small segment of the population's prosperity. However, they are not widespread enough to benefit the majority.
Why is there such a stark contrast between tourist areas and other regions in Cuba?
Tourist areas often receive investments and attention that enhance their prosperity, while other regions lack resources and investment, leading to visible economic disparities.