A Facebook video shared by Yela Bermudes revealing conditions at the Vedado markets in Havana has sparked outrage among Cubans.
Located at the intersection of 19th and B in Vedado, this market is known for being one of the most well-stocked in Havana, but it also carries the steepest prices. The footage displays signs with prices reaching 200 and 250 pesos per pound for items such as bananas and tomatoes. Historical data from earlier this year shows even more staggering figures: in March 2025, mangoes were priced at 500 pesos per pound, soursop at 500 pesos, lemons at 600 pesos, and cachucha peppers at an exorbitant 1,000 pesos per pound.
These prices starkly contrast with the actual earnings of the populace. The average salary in Cuba in 2025 was 6,930 Cuban pesos per month, equivalent to a mere five dollars at the prevailing informal exchange rate.
According to the Food Monitor Program, two adults living in Havana would need at least 41,735 pesos monthly just for basic food needs, exceeding the average wage by over six times. The Cuban Citizen Audit Observatory suggests that an individual needs at least 30,000 pesos each month for sustenance.
The comments on the video vividly capture the public's sentiment. José Israel Caraballo commented, "The most expensive market in Havana city, 19th and B Vedado Plaza de la Revolución. Bring a sack of money." Yadira Pérez Rodríguez described it more bluntly: "Market? More like a boutique... 19th and B is the priciest in Vedado."
Other users pointed out the inequality the market exemplifies. Dionisio Díaz Sánchez lamented, "Your salary disappears in five days' worth of food, without meat, without eggs." Yaimara Acosta added, "God bless the relatives who help from abroad, because those of us who are truly struggling can hardly keep up."
The government attempted to curb the price surge with Resolution 148/2025, setting maximum limits for agricultural products in September 2025. However, subsequent reports indicated that vendors routinely ignored the regulations without facing effective consequences.
One user summarized the situation in the comments of the video: "The most expensive food on the planet, and I won't argue about it."
Understanding the Economic Challenges in Havana's Markets
What are the price trends at the 19th and B market in Vedado?
The market is known for high prices, with some products like mangoes and lemons reaching 500 to 600 pesos per pound, while cachucha peppers hit 1,000 pesos per pound.
How do the market prices compare to the average salary in Cuba?
The average monthly salary in Cuba was 6,930 pesos in 2025, which is drastically low compared to the cost of living, as basic food expenses for two adults can exceed 41,735 pesos.
Have government measures been effective in controlling food prices?
Despite the implementation of Resolution 148/2025 to cap prices, vendors have largely ignored these limits without facing significant repercussions.