High-end cigar enthusiasts are appalled by the latest government ruling on the production and sale of tobacco products in the US. A 499-page decision by the Food and Drug Administration was met with criticism, especially by small producers, who are now subject to more stringent and possibly costly processes.
According to the proposed ruling, manufacturers big and small will be required to undergo a certification procedure to ensure that their products are properly labelled with the contents and warnings. It also sets the minimum age at 18 years old. This proposal covers not just cigars, but also traditional cigarettes, hookahs and e-cigarettes.
Mixed Reactions To The Ruling On Cigars
Health advocates are happy with the new rule, particularly because the previous guidelines did not include the more modern forms of tobacco, which have remained unregulated for the past years. The ruling also helps curb the growing dependence on e-cigarettes by the youth.
However, fans of premium cigars argue that the product should not be classified alongside the likes of vapes. They contend that since fancy cigars cost about $5 to $10 each, this price point is not likely to be appealing to the teens. In a statement to Consumer Affairs, CigarsCity.co owner Anthony Welch said that the median age for its cigar customers is 55.
The Threat To Indepependent Cigar Producers
The larger manufacturers of tobacco may not have a problem with the new FDA ruling, but it is unlikely that boutique cigar shops can catch up, especially with the 90-day deadline. Smaller stores are popular for their custom, hand-rolled varieties and owners argue that lumping them with the machine-made fare would be unfair, writes Reuters. Additionally, the certification processes may hike up operational and production costs for small players by 75 percent.
"The FDA took the path of least resistance. It is easier to make a one-size fits all regulation than try to understand the nuances of the industry," says Eric Newman, owner of the JC Newman Cigar Co of Tampa, which has been in business since 1895.
"It's an artisan product; a labor of love for these manufacturers," said Kevin Talley, senior director of federal affairs for the International Premium Cigar and Pipe Retailers Association. The group represents some 5,000 small retailers across the US. Members of the major cigar groups are expected to meet next week to decide on their action and response.
The FDA, however, remains firm in its decision, citing that all cigars pose a health risk whatever the age of its consumer. "To exclude some would be neglecting our duty to protect public health," announced Mitch Zeller, head of the Center for Tobacco Products at the FDA, shortly after the ruling was released.
