Cuba's Economic Crisis: The Rations Run Dry

Cuba faces a severe economic crisis, leaving state-run ration stores nearly empty as government resources dwindle. Once a staple, the 'libreta' ration book struggles to provide essentials to Cubans, many now relying on remittances for basic survival. The government considers shifting subsidies from goods to people amid rising inflation.

José Luis Amate López, working at a central Havana bodega, hasn't seen a customer in weeks, aside from a lurking kitten. The shelves are nearly bare, echoing the larger economic crisis sweeping Cuba. Amid soaring prices and depreciating wages, citizens struggle as state-run stores turn empty.

The 'libreta' or ration book, established in the 1960s by Fidel Castro, is now inadequate. Once loaded with essentials, it's now a shadow of its former self, failing to meet the needs of a hungry population. The ration book's shortcomings are exacerbated by Cuba’s dwindling resources and inflationary pressure.

With 80% of food imported, Cuba's economy suffers from a lack of funds. While the government considers shifting subsidies to individuals, this interim measure does little for those like Rosa Rodríguez, who struggle to make ends meet. Pressure mounts as remittances from abroad become lifelines for survival.