We are happy to learn that cigar imports are at an all-time high in the United States in Cigar Aficionado’s latest article by Gregory Mottola. But even more excited to read that these imports are coming predominantly from Nicaragua. 

As the first Nicaraguan factory to manufacture premium handmade cigars, this news reflects 50 years of hard work to position Nicaraguan cigars in the international market. Today, we are present in over 50 countries and counting, with the United States being our main market.

Nicaragua’s Growth Has Been Steady

Even though the numbers from the Cigar Association of America only reflect shipment of cigars not sales, it is still an important moment for cigar manufacturers in Nicaragua. In Cigar Aficionado’s latest article by Greg Mottola he states:

“Perhaps an equally intriguing story is Nicaragua. According to the CAA’s yearly report, Nicaragua was the largest supplier of premium cigars to the U.S. in 2017, surpassing the Dominican Republic for the second year in a row.

Last year, a little more than 148 million premium cigars made in Nicaragua came into the United States, nearly 30 million more (or 22.4 percent) than the Dominican Republic, which exported 118.5 million premium cigars to the U.S. market.”

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Picture by Cigar Aficionado: https://www.cigaraficionado.com/article/u-s-imports-330-million-premium-cigars-in-2017-most-since-1998-nicaragua-named-biggest-supplier

This news are also impressive since it comes at a time that the premium cigar industry has been shaken up by the latest regulations FDA regulations. Greg adds:

“So far, the FDA regulations do not seem to have negatively impacted U.S. imports, but final costs regarding the FDA’s substantial equivalence and mandatory lab testing for chemical analysis are still undetermined.”

Joya de Nicaragua’s Contribution

Joya begins its next half a century with a diverse, yet solidified portfolio accompanied by a packaging update for most of its brands. While in 1968 Joya de Nicaragua was the first and only brand of the factory, Joya’s offering has dramatically evolved. Its portfolio now includes the JOYA line and Antaño familyCuatro Cinco and even a revamp on the Joya de Nicaragua Clásico. In short, a wide variety of brands for all type of smokers and at different price points.

We remain optimistic about the future, feeling confident and proud to be “The Most Nicaraguan Cigar.” Join us in celebrating our 50th anniversary by sharing with us using the hashtag #Joya50.