Cuba Reforms Aimed at Productivity

Raul Castro flashes the victory sign during a session of Cuba's National Assembly in Havana, (File) Cuban President Raul Castro has introduced a series of reforms since he succeeded his ailing brother, Fidel, earlier this year. The reforms are primarily economic, but also include lifting restrictions on the sale of computers, cell phones and other items. As VOA's Bill Rodgers reports, Cuba experts say the measures are significant but do not indicate any loosening of Communist Party control of the island. Since formally becoming president in February, Raul Castro has introduced a series of economic reforms. Some are aimed at increasing food production. Farmers will be able to rent unused land from government collectives to grow crops and sell them at market prices. Other reforms seek to stimulate economic production, like... [read full story]