State-Run Bodegas Struggle to Supply Subsidized Goods
"The ration book, known as 'la libreta,' once provided a month's worth of subsidized food but now offers fewer items."
In Havana, bodega worker José Luis Amate López reported having no customers for nearly two weeks in late April. The store's shelves, once full, now offered only rice, sugar, and split chickpeas.
Background on Ration Book System
Established in the early 1960s, the ration book—"la libreta"—shrank significantly during the 1990s "Special Period" after Soviet aid ended. Some Cubans state the current situation is worse than that period. Items such as yogurt, pasta, and soap are no longer available.
Economic Factors
Cuba imports up to 80% of its food. According to American University professor William LeoGrande, the government lacks funds to maintain subsidies due to inflation and a budget deficit. A 2021 currency merger contributed to ongoing inflation. The government spends heavily on social services, health, education, and food imports, and has discussed shifting to subsidizing individuals rather than goods.
Impact on Residents
Residents report relying on remittances or struggling to afford basic goods. For example:
Havana resident Ana Enamorado said she could only buy split chickpeas and sugar at her bodega in April, with a monthly income of 8,000 Cuban pesos ($16). A carton of 30 eggs costs approximately 3,000 pesos.
Lázaro Cuesta, who receives remittances, noted that without them, the situation would be untenable. Rosa Rodríguez, who does not receive remittances, said April's bodega offering was only a donation of 4 pounds of rice.