MIAMI, United States. – The combination of high prices – especially that of pork – and prolonged blackouts (up to 22 hours a day in some locations) predict an unfortunate Christmas on the Island.
In markets like 19 and B, located in El Vedado, Havanathe price of a pound of pork rose to 1,000 pesos this week, which doubles its cost compared to the same period last year, according to a report in the independent newspaper Cuba DNA. Lower quality cuts, such as pieces with skin and bone or ribs with little meat, sell between 850 and 900 pesos.
The situation is not new. Last year, Havana authorities announced in the newspaper Havana Tribune that there would be no sale of pork at the end-of-year trade fairs. For this December 2024, expectations are even more discouraging.
Inflation continues to hit the national economy hard. Although an apparent stabilization of prices was observed in May, the last quarter has shown a new rebound. Feed shortages, lack of agricultural inputs and strict state control have significantly reduced supply, while demand remains high during the festive season.
Without significant changes in production and distribution policies, pork prices are likely to continue rising, further pushing this traditional food off the tables during the holidays.
“In Cuba, the price of pork has become a thermometer of the local economy. In its variations, it has oscillated, always upward, at the rate of inflation and the fall in production,” according to an analysis by the independent media. The Touch.
In just four years, the pork shortage has reached alarming levels with a reduction of almost 90%. The crisis affects all areas of the country. This has led to a decrease in animal husbandry and meat production, according to a study by the Economic and Commercial Office of the Spanish Embassy in Havana, published byICEX Spain Export and Investment.
Added to the food crisis is the aggravating factor of power outages. The Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant, the largest in Cuba, reconnected to the National Electroenergy System (SEN) this Monday, but its contribution of 160 MW is insufficient to satisfy demand. Other key plants, such as those in Santa Cruz del Norte and Mariel, remain out of service due to breakdowns or maintenance.
The collapse of the decaying SEN, the lack of fuel and the emergency situations due to the recent passage of two hurricanes through the Island, continue to impact a chaotic electro-energy panorama in the country.
The start of the new year does not seem more encouraging: the authorities have announced repairs to some power plants, such as the Felton power plant, whose rehabilitation would begin in May 2025 and would extend until 2028.
