Care crisis in Cuba: oil and food distribution on the brink!

Care crisis in Cuba: oil and food distribution on the brink!

Camagüey, Kuba - The distribution of regulated products that represent a basic supply in Cuba shows significant differences between the provinces. In Camagüey, the shipping of oil is currently being prepared for the month of June, while in Villa Clara there are still open deliveries for May. Loud Directorio The sale of over 160 tons of oil in Camagüey begins in the coming days. The distribution should initially start in the state capital, followed by an expansion to other municipalities.

supply situation and official measures

The supply situation in Cuba, however, is becoming increasingly critical. Frei Betto, a Brazilian liberation theologian, commented on the current challenges that he has described as the most difficult in a long time. As DW , the Cuban government has now asked the UN World Food program (WFP) to ensure the distribution of subsidized milk on children under seven years. This request to the UN represents a historical step because it is the first time that Cuba is looking for help in this form.

The WFP, which has been working in Cuba since 1963, has already delivered 144 tons of skimmed milk powder. However, the monthly need for milk powder in Cuba is around 2000 tons. Despite new deliveries from Brazil, which are supposed to secure the milk supply in the east, there are delays and internal care problems that make access to adequate food.

financial challenges and planned reforms

The country's financial difficulties are identified as one of the main causes for the current supply bottlenecks. Cuba spends $ 1.6 billion annually for subsidized food supply, but the economic situation remains tense. Inflation remains high and the government faces challenges to maintain basic care through the Libreta (rationing booklet). A comprehensive package of measures for macroeconomic stabilization has been announced, which includes price increases for gasoline of over 400 percent.

The change in the model for basic supply to a system that supports socially weak groups financially indicates that the Cuban government is trying to find pragmatic solutions to relieve the state budget. Despite these challenges, there are glimmer of hope on a recovery in tourism and improvements in the private sector, which could contribute to the stabilization of the supply in the long term.