Cuba marks 50 years of ’libreta’ ration books

Food rationing in Cuba is marking its 50th anniversary Food rationing in Cuba is marking its 50th anniversary but the world’s longest running system of its kind is on its way out as part of government reforms. The “libreta” as it is known began operating in July 1963 as a temporary measure to counter US sanctions. The ration books guarantee basic supplies to everyone, in theory. In practice there are shortages, Cubans are forced to shop elsewhere and the system is very costly for the st