Following the announcement that four of the largest cigar companies (Altadis U.S.A., General Cigar Company, Davidoff of Geneva, and Drew Estate) were not going to be attending the 2020 Premium Cigar Association (PCA) Trade Show; Cigar Rights of America has issued a statement regarding the matter.

Cigar Rights of America, as a coalition of consumers, retail tobacconists and family-owned manufacturers of premium handmade cigars announced its support for the Premium Cigar Association trade show, as well as the legislative and regulatory agenda that has been forged by the two organizations.

CRA Executive Director Glynn Loope stated, “CRA has been built by the traditional family-owned companies that manufacture premium handmade cigars, and those same companies will support the 2020 Premium Cigar Association trade show. Now, more than ever, it is important for the industry to gather with its retail partners.”

Cigar Rights of America and the Premium Cigar Association have forged a common agenda for addressing threats posed by government at all levels. “This has resulted in critical stays, delays and reversals in regulations most threatening to the industry. CRA and PCA have expended a combined $4.5 million just on litigation against FDA regulatory oversight not to mention the millions spent on the legislative agenda. This litigation has benefited the entire industry,” Loope added.

Board Chairman Robert Levin stated, “The CRA member manufacturers will be working together with our retail partners to strengthen our industry and protect premium cigar companies, and our customers, at this unique time in this industry’s history. That’s why we will be there.”