A few days ago, the Ministry of Finance and Prices reported on its X profile that in February the fiscal deficit was more than three billion pesos lower than planned, and the current account remained in surplus.
This news is undoubtedly encouraging amidst the current complex scenario, and also demonstrates that the implementation of the Cuban government’s Economic and Social Program 2026 continues despite severe limitations due to the energy blockade imposed by the Donald Trump administration as part of the US embargo.
The achievements relate to the improvement of fiscal control mechanisms, including the management of tax debt collection, which will increase revenue and reduce tax evasion.
And although premature and understated, starting the year with a fiscal deficit below projections aligns with the first of the Government Program’s general objectives: fostering a macroeconomic environment that promotes productive activity and increases external revenues.
With its structures and entities at all levels, and with the support of local governments, the Ministry of Finance and Prices is committed to maintaining the fiscal deficit at approved levels and adapting budgetary measures to the current context.
It is also tasked with identifying new sources of revenue for the State Budget to mitigate any impacts that may arise, as well as reducing expenses associated with budgeted activities.
An important step in this direction has been the recent publication in the Official Gazette of Decree 127/2025, “On Budgeted Institutions,” through which the country is advancing in improving the structure of the Central State Administration and achieving greater efficiency at the economic management levels.
Among the objectives of this regulation are relieving the State Budget of the heavy burden it bears due to the expenses of the Public Administration; reducing the number of indirect positions, which undermine productivity; seeking greater efficiency in human resources; and improving the management of local entities, in accordance with the territorial development strategy.
This measure, like others in preparation or announced, is colossal, necessary, and urgent, given the current multifaceted crisis facing Cuba, exacerbated by the tightening of the US blockade and the energy embargo, which prevents access to fuel as part of imperialist plans for economic strangulation.
As a consequence of the paralysis or reduction of essential activities, there has been a drastic decrease in the levels of production of goods and services, and in this sense, the scarcity of fuel and energy, for example, has caused prices for food, transportation, and other items to skyrocket.
Therefore, we lack the necessary resources to cope with debts, payments, and rising prices resulting from the imperialist war, logistical issues, and the ongoing pandemic. Overcoming these obstacles will depend on our potential and innovations.
To advance objectives that will positively impact the lives of Cubans and revitalize national industry, there is an Economic and Social Program developed in consensus with the opinions and contributions of a large part of the population, and which, against all odds, continues unabated. (Fidel Rendón Matienzo, ACN)
IMAGE CREDIT: ACN – Cuba / Fidel Rendón Matienzo
[ SOURCE: AGENCIA CUBANA DE NOTICIAS ]
