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More Cuban Stores Accepting US Dollars

VOA News

   Cuba increased the number of food stores that accept U.S.dollars and
   eliminated a 10 percent tax on the U.S.currency,inthe government's
   latest efforts to secure hard cashto bolster the islandnation's weak
   economy.

   People lined up at designatedstores thatonly accept hard currency to
   purchase items in short supply such as meat, rice and cleaning
   supplies.

   Thenew exchangesystem setoff criticismon social media that the
   government is creating a special class of consumer who is fortunate
   enough to have U.S.dollars and other hardcurrencies.

   Cuban President Miguel DiazCanelrecently rejected thataccusation,
   sayingthe government will allow all citizens to buy 47 items using
   local currency or they will receive them through monthly aid to
   families.

   The government denied thatpeople without hard currency will be left
   behind in the economy.

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