PLACETAS

city, east central Villa Clara province, central Cuba. Placetas is a commercial and manufacturing centre for the rich agricultural and pastoral hinterland. Tobacco, sugarcane, fruits, and cattle are processed in the city, while gold and asphalt are found in the vicinity. Goods are exported through the port of Caibarin or sent to Santa Clara via the central highway and major railroad. Pop. (1983 est.) 73,456.