Sales of Cuban cigars rose seven percent to $402 million in 2007.  Habanos-the government-run tobacco company said this last Wednesday. Eighty percent of the world cigar market, not counting the United States is comprised of Cuban cigars. The United States had a trade embargo banning Cuban cigars since 1962. Gee, seems to me I have been at more than one function and witnesses plenty of Cuban cigars and people greatly enjoying smoking them! How about you?
Germany, France, Spain, Switzerland and Cuba's domestic market remained top consumers of Cuban cigars last year according to Habanos Vice President Manuel Garcia. The company does not reveal how many cigars it sells on an actual basis each year but the total is believed to be between 150 million and 160 million. Now that is one heck of a lot of smoke risin'!
Garcia spoke at the 10th annual Habanos Festival that was held in Havana. The festival was attended by over 1,500 dignitaries, dealers and cigar aficionados.
If you are lucky enough to get Cuban cigars in your hands....puff away and enjoy them!