A young Cuban identified on TikTok as @brianna4258, residing in the province of Matanzas, posted a viral video documenting what can currently be purchased in Cuba with the minimum pension of a retiree: 1,500 Cuban pesos, equivalent to about 4 dollars at the informal exchange rate.

“This is the basic salary of a retiree in Cuba,” he says at the beginning of the video while showing the cash. He then walks through the streets and kiosks of his area to highlight the scarcity and high prices. Finally, back home, he shows his purchases: one pound of rice (200 CUP), one pound of black beans (300 CUP), three eggs (100 CUP each), a package of ground meat (600 CUP), and two cloves of garlic (40 CUP). After these purchases, he has just 60 pesos left.

“Tell me something, do you think a retiree can live on their salary in Cuba?” The question at the end sparked a wave of comments ranging from outrage to solidarity, many from Cubans who have emigrated or reside in other Latin American countries.

The video has garnered hundreds of comments from users impacted by the harshness of reality. “That’s not enough for anything,” commented one user. Another wrote: “1,500 pesos is barely 4 euros; that doesn’t even cover a breakfast in Spain.” From countries like Venezuela, Colombia, Uruguay, or Guatemala, many agreed in describing the economic situation of Cuban pensioners as unsustainable.

Brianna herself responded to several comments, confirming that “it’s not enough at all” and thanking everyone for their supportive messages. Some users even suggested ways to repurpose food like garlic or to create aid campaigns.

Almost 40% of retirees in Cuba live on the minimum pension

According to official data published last October, the 39% of retirees in Cuba receives the minimum pension of 1,528 CUP per month. This amount, in the context of rampant inflation, shortages, and the rising cost of basic goods, does not even cover a minimum diet. In fact, a kilogram of powdered milk can cost up to 1,800 CUP.

The dissolution of the National Social Security Institute and the transfer of responsibilities to the municipalities have been heavily criticized for not providing clear solutions. The situation worsens particularly for those who do not receive remittances or have family support from abroad.

Similar cases: active workers also report precariousness

The case of Brianna adds to a series of viral content where Cubans showcase their daily struggle to survive on state salaries. Recently, the creator “El Henry” documented in a viral video what he was able to buy with the minimum wage of 2,100 CUP. Despite the humorous tone, he ended up contributing extra money to pay for two pizzas.

Also, a Cuban teacher on maternity leave revealed that her reduced salary of just 8 dollars a month only allowed her to purchase basic necessities, without being able to buy a toy costing 1,000 CUP for her child.

Even a government-affiliated journalist openly questioned on social media the feasibility of living on a minimum pension in Cuba, in a rare criticism within the media subordinated to the regime.

An unsustainable reality

The lack of access to basic food and essential services has driven many Cuban retirees to scavenge through garbage or collect raw materials to survive. Content on social media has become a painful mirror of this reality, amidst the silence or empty responses from the authorities.

While the government claims that Social Security is a “victory” that will be upheld, more and more Cubans, like Brianna, are turning to digital platforms to reveal the truth: that in Cuba, after a lifetime of work, old age is met with hunger.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Minimum Pension in Cuba
What can be bought with the minimum pension of a retiree in Cuba?

With the minimum pension of 1,500 Cuban pesos, which is equivalent to about 4 dollars, a retiree in Cuba can barely buy a pound of rice, a pound of beans, three eggs, a package of ground meat, and two cloves of garlic. This amount is insufficient to meet basic food needs, highlighting the difficult economic situation faced by retirees on the island.

How many retirees in Cuba receive the minimum pension?

According to official data, nearly 40% of retirees in Cuba receive the minimum pension of 1,528 pesos per month. This figure reflects a concerning reality, as inflation and the scarcity of basic products make this amount of money insufficient for a decent living.

How does inflation affect retirees in Cuba?

Inflation in Cuba has surpassed 30%, significantly reducing the purchasing power of retirees. Even basic products like rice and beans have become inaccessible for many, forcing some retirees to search for food in the trash or rely on external assistance to survive.

What solutions does the Cuban government offer to retirees with minimum pensions?

The government has announced the decentralization of Social Security, transferring responsibilities to municipalities, but has not presented effective solutions to improve the situation for retirees. Although there is a promise to work on improving conditions, no concrete changes have been implemented to alleviate the economic situation of this vulnerable group.

Read more @cibercuba