Following an initial announcement that provided few details, Cuba has revealed more information about the highly anticipated Chinese store set to open in one of Havana’s most popular locations. It was previously known that the Vedado store would be operated by the joint venture SUMAI S.A.—the first commercial entity established between Cuba and China—which had already piloted a market earlier this year in Camagüey province featuring a diverse product range.
However, after the announcement, many Cubans took to social media to voice questions regarding who would be able to shop there, when the market would open, and which currency would be used for transactions. Regarding the opening date, a report by the state-aligned outlet *Cubadebate* stated on Thursday that SUMAI S.A. “confirmed progress on the project to open a store at the ’23 and 10′ market in Havana’s Vedado district, though it noted that the start date for operations has not yet been defined.”
The state media outlet cited the company’s commercial manager, Eimy Iturralde, who revealed that the new store “will combine wholesale and retail sales and offer a wide range of products.” Reports indicate that the inventory will include renewable energy equipment, construction materials, “hardware, household goods, appliances, and food, as well as office and school supplies, among other product lines.”
The plan to operate in dollars may come as a disappointment to many Cubans amidst the country’s complex economic situation. Iturralde explained that SUMAI S.A. is authorized to operate in U.S. dollars (USD) but made no mention of other currencies. “Sales will take place in person, and customers will be able to pay in cash or via cards authorized for use in the country.
Additionally, there will be special terms for wholesale buyers,” the executive noted. The company, which is also introducing an e-commerce model between China and Cuba, plans to expand its presence with a network of stores in several of the country’s provinces, following its entry into the Camagüey and Havana markets. Chinese projects are gaining momentum following Cuba’s announcement of a package of measures aimed at a purported economic opening on the island—in response to the severe crisis—which includes new options for businesses, private sector development, and foreign investment.
