Betsy Díaz Velázquez, Minister of Internal Trade (MINCIN) of Cuba, assured official media that the basic basket for February is “guaranteed” with products that are sold through the so-called supply book. But, in real life, are these products reaching beyond the government discourse?
Although the official spoke of insured products, she later specified some problems by province that cast doubt on her assertion.
He explained that in the case of rice, a fractional distribution has begun, ending the month of January with the province of Granma and Holguín was still pending. Meanwhile, in February, seven pounds per consumer are guaranteed and, with the operations of two ships, deliveries of the product began in installments, initially reaching up to five pounds in all the provinces of the country before the 20th, or be today.
But the provinces of Camagüey and Las Tunas still depended on the arrival of one of the ships operating in Havana to the port of Nuevitas, to have all the rice corresponding to February.
The Minister also thanked a donation of rice from Vietnam, with which they would deliver two free pounds in Guantánamo, one in Granma and Artemisa.
Guaranteed basic basket in February?
On the other hand, he highlighted that the grains are also guaranteed. Although there are provinces such as Villa Clara, Sancti Spíritus and Cienfuegos where the peas are on the way, and they must support the shortages in January, February and March. Additionally, a bean distribution will begin for February and March.
The Minister also commented that the oil for the month of February, compote, coffee and chicken are guaranteed for the population (which does not include rural areas where it is distributed once a quarter). Inventories are also being completed in the provinces to ensure cleanliness for the January-February period.
Sugar, a product that has also arrived intermittently, is conditional on the sugar harvest. The official also spoke about the pending products for the most vulnerable people.
“We are talking about rice, pasta, legumes and sardines that will allow, from Pinar del Río to Sancti Spíritus, to provide a differentiated distribution to these age groups,” he specified.
With all these problems and delays, should they really ensure that the basic basket for February is ready?
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