Cuban cigar aficionados may be in for some bad news as rumours have been circulating that Habanos, the Cuban state-run tobacco company, will be increasing prices on their cigars starting January 1, 2023. Habanos has reportedly informed distributors of the price increases, which will vary depending on the brand and format of the cigar.

The most significant increase will be seen on Cohiba Behike cigars, which will reportedly see a 50% price increase. Other Cohiba cigars will see increases ranging from 3% to 15%, with the Siglo VI format being hit the hardest with a 15% increase.

The Trinidad brand will see a more modest 3% increase, while the Montecristo Linea 1935 and Romeo Y Julieta Linea de Oro will both see 5% and 10% increases, respectively. Global and high value brands will also see a 10% increase, while the rest of the Habanos portfolio will see a 5% increase.

These price increases, if confirmed, will likely be a disappointment to many cigar lovers who already face high prices for Cuban cigars. The increases will also come at a time when the global economy is still recovering from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, making it even harder for some consumers to justify the higher prices.

It is unclear at this time what has prompted the rumoured price increases, but some speculate that it may be due to increased production costs or a desire to maintain the exclusivity and high value of Cuban cigars.

Despite the high prices and the rumoured price increases, Cuban cigars remain a popular choice among cigar enthusiasts due to their unique flavour and reputation for quality. The tobacco used in Cuban cigars is grown in specific regions of the country, and the cigars are handmade using time-honoured techniques that have been passed down through generations.

The process of making a Cuban cigar is a labour-intensive one, and each cigar must pass strict quality control measures before it is considered ready for sale. The high level of craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into making each cigar contributes to their high prices and prestige.

In addition to the price increases on individual brands and formats, it is also rumoured that Habanos will be implementing a minimum price for all of its cigars. This minimum price will reportedly be set at $20 per cigar, which is a significant increase from the current minimum price of $10 per cigar.

It is important to note that these rumoured price increases have not been confirmed by Habanos, and it is possible that they may not come to fruition. However, if they are implemented, they will likely have a significant impact on the cigar industry and on consumers who enjoy Cuban cigars.

Regardless of whether the rumoured price increases are confirmed, it is clear that Cuban cigars will remain a highly sought-after and expensive luxury item. Their unique flavour, reputation for quality, and labour-intensive production process make them a true luxury product that many cigar lovers are willing to pay a premium for.