Quote:
Originally Posted by icehog3
Perhaps the powers that be will realize, seeing the influx of Cuban cigars into Chicago over a two week period, the potential for tax revenue that can be generated, and might be a small push toward ending the embargo for economic gain?
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Unfortunately opening Cuba is not about money it's about ideology and mobilized political groups which leads to real money as in campaign donations which trump tax revenues for most politicians. As long as Cuba is communist and the wealthy exiled Cubans are active in Republican politics it will be hard to sell much beyond limited relaxing of rules regarding Cuba. Maybe humanitarian aid and increased travel but unlikely they are going to open up to their only real export. We'll see but I would be surprised if it happened any time soon.
I think it is clear that if not a boom we are in a golden period for NC cigars. The number of new boutique brands bringing quality product with a whole variety of innovations and rediscovered traditions being released indicates real growth particularly considering the poor economy. It seems like it is more tobacco people with good product than people trying get on a trend make a quick buck with marketing like in the 90's.
I think the lack of taxation on internet purchases and the inherent dangers of states trying enforce sales tax make quality cigars much more affordable which is contributing the increase in cigar purchases. It is also unfortunately contributing to the demise of many B&M's. I don't know of a single B&M in my area that is not also selling wine & beer or something else other than tobacco besides a couple of outlet kinds of places.