I suggest you review the steps to activate gmail.You must be 100% sure that Gmail is activated properly, which may require domain validation via DNS.I suggest going through the steps again and making sure you have Gmail enabled before continuing.If i...

It is strange although you can always try to contact and ask at Contact Google Workspace support.

I think reducing all G Suite functionality to storage is a bit unfair and just highlights how long you've been overpaying for G Suite after price increases or not taking advantage of all it has to offer (due to ignorance or different personal needs )...