Cuban content creator Yenelis López is attempting to carve out a niche as an entrepreneur in Cuba by initiating a trade business centered around a bottle of vegetable oil.
In a humorous Instagram video, she humorously requested that only "serious individuals" contact her, emphasizing the significant worth of the food product she possesses.
"I'm willing to trade this bottle of oil for a beachfront house that includes a pool, golf course, modern car, and a power generator. Just so you know, I'll need some change back. The oil is sealed," stated Yenelis.
As of August 2026, the price of a liter of vegetable oil on Cuba's informal market can exceed 4,000 Cuban pesos, with reports indicating prices as high as 5,000 CUP in certain areas.
This cost accounts for 30% to 60% of the average official monthly salary, which is approximately 7,074 CUP. The rapid increase in oil prices in Cuba was fueled by Resolution 150/2026, which in June removed price caps on imported edible oils and repealed the previous limit of 990 CUP per liter.
Yenelis's Instagram reel gathered over 55,000 views within 24 hours and received numerous comments with outrageous proposals. These comments reflect the Cuban humor amidst the ongoing crisis.
One fellow content creator commented, "I see you're speculating." Another suggested, "Friend, you're underestimating your product, ask for more," while a third remarked, "You're giving it away! We need to laugh to keep from crying."
Some users took the joke further. One person offered a higher bid: "I have a 10-liter gallon. Besides the house, I want a Honda Civic."
Another user proposed a more practical deal: "Better trade it for a plane ticket." And from abroad, someone offered an alternative: "How about a ticket with a trip to Brazil?"
The soaring oil prices also inspired a sketch by comedian Loky Kubah, and another by comedian Otto Ortiz, who, while showcasing his gallon of the valuable liquid, commented, "There are concrete, objective, and practical ways to show you're thriving" in Cuba.
Understanding the High Value of Vegetable Oil in Cuba
Why is vegetable oil so expensive in Cuba?
Vegetable oil prices have surged in Cuba due to the lifting of price caps on imported edible oils, as per Resolution 150/2026. This has caused prices to soar in the informal market, impacting the affordability for many Cubans.
What was the previous price limit for vegetable oil in Cuba?
Before the changes in June 2026, the previous price limit set for vegetable oil was 990 Cuban pesos per liter.