Summary
The Cuban cigar industry is facing severe supply problems due to various factors such as bad weather and poor harvests. Recently, a U.S. oil blockade has made it even harder for cigar shops in Cuba to get regular shipments of premium cigars.
Key Facts
- Cuban cigar shipments have slowed from three times a month before COVID-19 to once a month or less.
- The cigar industry in Cuba has dealt with challenges like bad harvests and hurricanes.
- The recent U.S. oil blockade on Cuba is worsening the supply problems for cigars.
- Esteban García, a shop manager in Havana, reports empty shelves and delayed shipments.
- Popular Cuban cigar brands affected include Romeo y Julieta, Montecristo, and Cohiba.
- The oil blockade limits Cuba’s access to fuel needed for transportation and production.
- The combination of supply issues threatens the availability of Cuban cigars both locally and abroad.
