Cuba’s Ongoing Food Shortage Crisis: What’s Causing It and How Can It Be Solved?
Cuba is currently facing what some are calling the country's "worst economic crisis in 30 years," with skyrocketing prices for gas, commodities, and basic services. The most pressing issue, however, remains a national food shortage that is leading to widespread humanitarian problems. The Cuban government has reached out to the United Nations' World Food Program (WFP) for support, marking the first time the country has requested aid due to economic hardships.
Cuba is currently facing what some are calling the country's "worst economic crisis in 30 years," with skyrocketing prices for gas, commodities, and basic services. The most pressing issue, however, remains a national food shortage that is leading to widespread humanitarian problems. The Cuban government has reached out to the United Nations' World Food Program (WFP) for support, marking the first time the country has requested aid due to economic hardships.
What's Causing Cuba's Food Shortage?
The root of Cuba's food shortage crisis lies in the dwindling availability of key staples like bread and milk, which are essential for a healthy diet, especially for children. These staples were part of Cuba's 'rationbook' system, introduced after Castro's revolution in 1959 to provide subsidized essentials for all citizens. However, the economic crisis has crippled the government's ability to fulfill these commitments, leading to shortages in food, fuel, and medicine.
The aftermath of Covid-19 and increased sanctions under former President Donald Trump have exacerbated the situation. Trump's sanctions significantly reduced Cuba's foreign earnings, and President Joe Biden has maintained most of these sanctions, further straining the country's economy. This is a stark contrast to a decade ago when former President Barack Obama and former Cuban President Raúl Castro worked towards normalizing relations to boost economic development.
Mismanagement or External Factors?
While the Cuban government blames the United States for the crisis, many experts point to internal mismanagement as a significant factor. Economist Omar Everleny Pérez highlighted shortcomings in Cuba's agricultural model and high inflation as key contributors to the food shortage. Pérez emphasized the need for more freedom for small and medium-sized private businesses to address the crisis effectively.
Solving the Crisis
One proposed solution is to grant more autonomy to private enterprises, a rare occurrence in Cuba. Pérez suggested that the state should focus on strategically important sectors of the economy rather than controlling bakeries and other businesses. In addition to seeking aid from the WFP, Cuba has purchased milk from the United States and agricultural products from Canada and Brazil. The government has also announced plans to reduce rations for basic goods and increase fuel and electricity prices.
However, despite these efforts, mass migration from Cuba to the U.S. has surged in recent years, indicating the severity of the crisis. With over 442,000 undocumented Cubans arriving at U.S. borders since 2022, the economic situation is driving significant emigration from the country. As Cuba's economy teeters on the edge, addressing the food shortage remains a critical challenge that requires immediate attention and innovative solutions.
Hey there, I'm Mohamed Rahat, your go-to writer for all things business and economy. Originally from Mumbai, now rocking it in Navi Mumbai. With a past life at Tata Power Co. Ltd., I'm here to unravel the mysteries of the economic world, one article at a time. Stick around for some mind-bending insights! Connect With Me