The Cuban Ministry of Domestic Trade has dismissed as false the social media rumors alleging that products donated by the Mexican government are being sold in stores that operate with foreign currency.
According to an official statement, the food items sent as humanitarian aid continue to be distributed free of charge to the public through the nation's network of ration stores.
"The Ministry of Domestic Trade clarifies that the reports circulating on digital social networks about the sale of products donated by the brotherly people and government of Mexico in foreign currency stores are false," the statement declared.
This announcement follows a report by the Mexican channel TV Azteca, which claimed that humanitarian aid products sent to Cuba were being sold in state-controlled shops that deal in dollars.
The investigation, led by journalist Rodrigo Lema, alleges that donated food items, including what is called "welfare beans," are being sold in outlets linked to military structures.
According to the report, 30-kilogram sacks of beans are being offered for $43, while in some state-run stores, half a kilogram of the product is sold for $2.97.
The report also includes testimonies from residents who claim they have not received any of these food items despite the arrival of donation shipments at Havana Bay.
Following these allegations, Cuban-American congresswoman María Elvira Salazar took to social media, reiterating her long-standing accusations that international aid meant for the Cuban people often ends up profiting the ruling elite.
"While Cubans go hungry, the dictatorship turns international goodwill into a business for the military and regime leaders," Salazar wrote on X.
She concluded her statement with a warning to the Cuban government: "They will fall. And they will be held accountable. Very soon."
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Domestic Trade emphasized that the donated products from Mexico are still being distributed free of charge to the public through established distribution mechanisms.
"As we have been updating on our official profiles, the distribution and free delivery of these products to the population in ration stores continue," the entity confirmed.
The authorities also urged the public to stay informed exclusively through the ministry's official channels.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cuban Humanitarian Aid
Are products donated by Mexico being sold in Cuban dollar stores?
The Cuban Ministry of Domestic Trade asserts that this claim is false and that donated products are distributed free of charge to the public.
What did the TV Azteca report allege about the Cuban aid?
The report claimed that humanitarian aid products, like "welfare beans," were sold in state-controlled shops linked to military structures for profit.
How has the Cuban government responded to these allegations?
The government has denied the allegations, stating that aid continues to be distributed freely through official channels.
What stance has María Elvira Salazar taken on this issue?
The congresswoman has criticized the Cuban regime, claiming that international aid often benefits the ruling elite rather than the people.