Four Dominican Republic Cigar Brands to Enter China

China Tobacco has approved four Dominican Republic cigar brands, Arturo Fuente, EP Carrillo, PDR Cigars, and La Galera Cigars for entry to China. The approved sales area covers seven major regions across China, namely Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Guangdong, Shandong, Zhejiang, and Sichuan.

Diplomatic relations between the Dominican Republic and China commenced in 2018, and in November 2019, the Dominican Republic was Guest Country of Honour at the International Cigar Expo (ICE) in Shenzhen. Numerous brands were represented at ICE and brand owners including Carlito Fuente, Litto Gomez, Abe Flores, Jochy Blanco, and Radhames Rodriguez attended. One of 20 initial Memorandums of Understanding signed was regarding cigars and tobacco to formalise the entrance of Dominican Republic Cigars into China.

“It is an honour to be partnered with one of the greatest cigar distribution companies in the world: China Tobacco,” said Carlito Fuente.  “The Fuente’s have been involved in the premium cigar industry for generations and cherish the values and tradition which have forged the pillars of the family business. We share the same values, quest for perfection and friendship,” affirms Carlito. “Our mutual respect and appreciation will transcend generations and I’m looking forward to being united soon again with my friends in China!”

H.E. Briunny Garabito Segura, Ambassador of the Dominican Republic in the People’s Republic of China stated that the important efforts to modernize and strengthen the development of the national cigar industry put forward by the Chinese authorities and enthusiasts has resulted in a continuous improvement of their final product and an increased awareness and interest of the Chinese market for local and foreign premium cigars. “Today, we can enjoy very good Chinese cigars and we see a rapidly growing cigar culture that is very keen to continue discovering the adventurous and sophisticated complexities of the Dominican cigar tradition, which can be traced back to the 15^th century,” said H.E. Briunny Garabito Segura.  “The official entry of these 4 brands, which hold a place amongst the most renowned cigar brands in the world, marks a milestone for the industries of both countries. On the one hand, China represents a massive growth market for the Dominican products, and on the other, Chinese cigar culture continues to flourish and is further enriched by welcoming the quality, history and experience of the Dominican cigar heritage.”

The approval is granted for three of each brand’s cigars to initially enter the Chinese market.

Arturo Fuente:

• Hemingway Short Story
• Magnum R56
• Don Carlos Robusto

EP Carrillo:

• Encore Majestic
• Selection Oscuro Small Churchill
• New Wave Reserva Robusto

PDR Cigars:

• The PDR Flores Y Rodriguez Connecticut Valley Reserve
• Flores 1975 Serie Privada Rosado
• PDR 1878 Capa Natural

La Galera Cigars:

• Connecticut Bonchero No. 4
• Habano Chaveta Robusto
• Anemoi Anemoi