The premium cigar industry celebrates a groundbreaking victory as the United States District Court for the District of Columbia issued a landmark ruling in the case of Cigar Association of America et al, v. U.S. Food and Drug Administration et al. The court’s decision to fully vacate the FDA’s deeming rule for premium cigars marks a pivotal moment in the industry’s longstanding struggle against what has been deemed arbitrary and capricious regulation.
For over a decade, premium cigars have been subjected to regulatory measures that many stakeholders argue failed to account for the unique characteristics and cultural significance of these handcrafted products. The evidence presented during the case overwhelmingly supported the contention that premium cigars should not be treated in the same manner as other tobacco products.
The ruling echoes the industry’s collective sentiment that premium cigars deserve a differentiated approach, and the verdict acknowledges that the FDA’s assertion of regulatory authority over these products was not justified. The court’s decision reflects a comprehensive understanding of the premium cigar industry’s nuanced nature and the importance of respecting its heritage.
The Premium Cigar Association (PCA), Cigar Rights of America (CRA), and Cigar Association of America (CAA) along with dedicated industry partners, have devoted significant resources and efforts to secure this outcome. Millions of dollars and thousands of hours of staff time have been invested to advocate for a fair and balanced regulatory framework that recognizes the unique aspects of premium cigars. This victory stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment of the cigar industry and its allies to champion the interests of premium cigar manufacturers, retailers, and enthusiasts.
You can read the court’s decision here: https://ecf.dcd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/show_public_doc?2016cv1460-276
