In Havana, Cuba, the country is grappling with the challenge of providing sufficient milk for children, according to the Minister of Domestic Trade. This is a clear illustration of the recurring product shortages on the island, which puts strain on the long-standing subsidy plan initiated by the late former president Fidel Castro decades ago.
During this month, milk deliveries for young children, specifically those aged between 6 months to 2 years, experienced delays. This was confirmed by Betsy Díaz, the minister in question, who assured that distribution would soon commence albeit in smaller quantities and directed towards priority groups.
The official further elaborated that children suffering from chronic diseases would be among the priority groups. However, she cautioned that they would receive milk at half their usual allowance.
It is worth noting that infant milk has been a significant item in Cuba’s “ration book” for a long time. This system, introduced in the wake of the 1959 revolution, was designed to ensure fair distribution of subsidized basic food items across the country.
The rationing system, however, has been plagued with deficiencies and delays in recent years, largely due to the economic blockade which has hampered the Cuban government’s capacity to fulfill its obligations.
Diaz revealed that currently, only three out of Cuba’s 15 provinces were producing milk in sufficient quantities to meet demand. This comes in the backdrop of a significant plunge in milk production over the recent years.
She noted that the provinces that were not producing enough milk were the hardest hit by the shortages. These provinces were forced to depend on the relatively costly and often imported milk powder.
Compounding these issues are further shortages brought about by the US trade embargo, a policy that has its roots in the Cold War era. This embargo restricts financial dealings with Cuba, thus exacerbating the already dire situation.
