Cubans can once again purchase computers

The new Cuban head of state and government, Raul Castro, has approved the unfettered sale of computers, DVD players, and other electronic devices in the communist country. Until now, trade in these devices was regulated by the state. According to press reports, the reason for the loosening of restrictions was an improvement in Cuba's power supplies. But on his assumption of government duties in February, Raul Castro had already announced that he would ease access to consumer products for his countrymen.

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Following the collapse of the former Soviet Union in the early 90s and the loss of its most important trading partner, Cuba experienced a severe economic crisis. Due to a poor energy supply, there were sometimes 18 hours a day without power. Sale of electrical appliances such as televisions, microwave ovens or toasters to private persons was prohibited. The situation did not improve until 2006 when, with the help of Cuba's new most important trading partner Venezuela, hundreds of generators were purchased for power production.

(trk)