A Cuban woman, who shares content on TikTok under the handle @its_sandry_, recently gained significant attention online. Her viral video humorously highlights the dire situation in Cuba by explaining why she feels "wealthy": she managed to purchase a cylinder of cooking gas.
In a 49-second clip that amassed over 136,000 views and 13,500 likes, the young woman known as 'La Vero' states, "I'm wealthy living in Cuba and I'll explain why: because I have gas to cook."
She reveals that the cylinder cost her $110, equivalent to over 70,000 Cuban pesos in the informal market at the time, when the dollar first exceeded the 700-peso mark, closing at 703 CUP.
What makes her story even more striking is how she paid for it—not through her salary, but with financial support from her TikTok followers. "I was able to purchase it thanks to all of you here on TikTok, because honestly, if it were from my month's salary, I wouldn't have been able to afford it," she admits.
Her situation is not unique. The official average salary in Cuba is approximately 6,930 Cuban pesos per month, roughly $10 at informal exchange rates. Meeting basic needs can cost between 50,000 and 96,000 pesos monthly, according to documented estimates.
Gas Shortages and Economic Struggles
In July 2026, the government set an official price of 350 pesos for a 10-kilogram gas cylinder. However, the reality for many Cubans is starkly different due to scarcity in the state-run system. On the informal market, gas sells for between $24 and $50 on digital platforms and can reach up to 75,000 pesos in cities like Santiago de Cuba.
In August, another Cuban, 'Gely la Flaki,' paid $99 for an 8-kilogram cylinder after going over 20 days without cooking, sparking outrage on social media.
Electricity Woes Compounding the Issue
The gas shortage is exacerbated by unreliable electricity. In 2026, Cuba experienced at least eight nationwide power outages, with prolonged blackouts in some provinces. This has made gas an essential cooking resource for many households.
"That's why many Cubans cook with wood or charcoal, and some can't cook at all," 'La Vero' points out in her video. The Food Monitor Program estimates that 35% of Cuban households face this harsh reality.
In a poignant conclusion, 'La Vero' expresses her frustration: "It's very disheartening. I work, people, and it's incredibly frustrating to work and not even have enough to buy food for the whole month, let alone a gas cylinder, which is so crucial for Cubans, especially since electricity isn't reliable here in Cuba."
Understanding Cuba's Economic Challenges
Why does a gas cylinder cost so much in Cuba?
The high cost is due to the scarcity of gas in the state-run system, forcing many to rely on the informal market where prices are significantly higher.
How do Cubans cope with gas shortages?
Many Cubans resort to cooking with wood or charcoal, while others rely on financial support from relatives abroad or online communities.
What is the average salary in Cuba?
The average official monthly salary in Cuba is approximately 6,930 Cuban pesos, equivalent to about $10 on the informal market.