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Cigar Sales on the Rise in Cambodia as Switch from Cigarettes Gains Momentum

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Rafia Tasleem
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Growing Trend: Cambodians Embrace Cigars as an Alternative to Cigarettes

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In a notable shift within the tobacco market of Cambodia, an increasing number of Cambodians, numbering in the hundreds, have been transitioning from cigarettes to cigars over the past few years. This shift has led to a steady growth in the cigar segment, making it one of the fastest-growing sectors within the country's tobacco industry. It is projected that the total sales volume of cigars in Cambodia will reach 8.68 million pieces by 2027.

Cigar Segment Flourishes in Cambodia's Tobacco Market

According to the Cigars Report 2023, the revenue in the cigars segment is expected to surpass $1.6 million in the current year, with an average volume per person estimated at 0.76 pieces in 2023. Alexis Tang, the Business Development Manager of Cigar Divan (Cambodia) Company Limited, a subsidiary of Pacific Cigars Hong Kong, expressed optimism about the steady growth of the segment.

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Pacific Cigars holds the exclusive wholesale distribution rights for Habanos Cigars, which are produced by Habanos SA, a state-controlled Cuban company renowned as a global leader in the export of premium cigars and other tobacco products. Tang highlighted that the growing preference for cigars in Cambodia is not limited to expatriates but extends to Cambodians themselves, broadening the market.

Changing Perceptions and Increased Accessibility

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Tang emphasized the changing perception of cigars among Cambodians, dispelling the notion that cigars are exclusively for the affluent. She noted that cigars have become integrated into the Cambodian lifestyle, particularly in urban areas. As a result, the company has witnessed a surge in customers, particularly new ones, who have made the switch from cigarettes to cigars. Tang also emphasized the availability of cigars in various types, sizes, and price ranges, catering to different income groups.

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While acknowledging the popularity of Cuban cigars worldwide, Tang urged responsible consumption and highlighted Pacific Cigars' commitment to adhering to Cambodian laws and regulations aimed at reducing tobacco use. The company ensures rigorous quality control checks to ensure that the cigars sold meet prescribed limits and standards. Tang also appealed to authorities to combat the sale of counterfeit tobacco products, urging cigar users to verify the authenticity of brands through barcode checks to safeguard their health.

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