A Cuban woman recently took to TikTok to highlight the significant challenges of acquiring fish on the island, despite its abundance of surrounding waters. Through a video on her account, @guajirita.cubana, she chronicled the arduous process of purchasing this essential food item and raised questions about the steep costs and limitations faced by citizens.
"Eating fish in Cuba is nearly impossible, even though we're surrounded by the sea," she remarked, capturing the moment she managed to buy 10 pounds of fish for 3,000 Cuban pesos (CUP), roughly equivalent to $12 at the current informal exchange rate.
She explained that finding fresh fish in government-run markets is a rarity, and the general public is not free to fish at will. Only licensed fishermen have that privilege, while species such as shrimp and lobster are almost entirely off-limits for local consumption, being reserved predominantly for export or for the tourism sector.
The content creator also pointed out that some of the fish available is sold in stores where payment is required in dollars, a currency to which most Cubans lack access. This situation transforms a traditional food into a luxury for numerous families.
In coastal municipalities, the situation might be marginally better due to direct access to local fishermen. However, those residing far from the sea encounter even greater hurdles. Sometimes, she noted, only government-authorized private sellers manage to supply fish, but there is not always enough to meet demand.
"Tell me if you think it's expensive or reasonably priced," she commented, showcasing her purchase and highlighting the ongoing debate between necessity and the real purchasing power of salaries in Cuba.
Her account adds to the multiple grievances from citizens about the scarcity of basic foodstuffs in the country and the relentless rise in prices of essential goods amid an economic crisis that continues to severely impact the Cuban population.
Challenges of Buying Fish in Cuba
Why is it difficult to buy fish in Cuba?
The scarcity of fish in government markets, restrictions on who can fish, and the prioritization of export and tourism lead to difficulties in purchasing fish in Cuba.
How do economic conditions affect fish prices in Cuba?
The economic crisis has resulted in inflated prices for essential goods, including fish, making it a luxury for many Cubans. The disparity in currency accessibility also exacerbates this issue.