Tariff Fallout: U.S. Cigar Prices Rise Amid Political Irony
Cigar smokers across the U.S. are facing rising prices as brands react to tariffs imposed by the Trump administration. Ironically, the largely conservative cigar community now finds itself paying for the policies it once supported.
In recent weeks, a growing number of cigar companies have announced price hikes due to the tariffs imposed on foreign-made goods under the Trump administration. This wave of increases is becoming a recurring trend, affecting both cigar retailers and consumers. What adds a layer of irony is the traditionally conservative cigar community—often vocal in its support for the GOP—is now experiencing direct consequences from the very policies it backed.
Major names like Perdomo, Southern Draw, RoMa Craft, Villiger, JRE, CLE, Oscar Valladares, Artesano Del Tobacco, Altadis USA, Oliva, Casa Carrillo, and STG (home to General Cigar, Forged, and Meier & Dutch) have all recently implemented tariff-related price increases. Now, more brands are joining the list.
Gurkha Cigars has announced a price adjustment effective June 2, though the company has not disclosed the affected lines or the exact amount of the increase. “Our adjustments ensure the maintenance of our product quality despite the global supply chain shifts,” said Juan Lopez, VP of Sales at Gurkha. He added that the company performed a “careful, product-by-product analysis” to minimise the impact on its customers.
Sinistro Cigars has followed suit with modest increases, stating the largest change is around 20 cents per cigar or $3 per box. The company maintains that it is simply passing on increased costs without further price manipulation.
Laudisi Enterprises, which distributes brands such as Caldwell, La Barba, and Lost & Found, has introduced average increases of 5–6%. These changes are attributed not only to tariffs but also to a weakening dollar. While the La Barba lines are affected, Bellatto Premium Cigars remain untouched. Laudisi has also raised prices on a wide range of pipe tobaccos and accessories, including offerings from Savinelli, Peterson, and Samuel Gawith.
The latest to join this trend is PDR Cigars. During the 2025 PCA Convention & Trade Show, the company informed retailers of its decision to delay price increases until June 1, allowing time to adjust orders. PDR is applying the additional cost as a separate line item and plans to remove it should the tariff be lifted. “When Trump removes it, we will stop adding it,” said PDR owner Abe Flores.
These cumulative adjustments point to a trend likely to continue if current trade policies remain in place. For cigar lovers, the experience of enjoying premium sticks is becoming noticeably more expensive—and it underscores the broader economic ripple effects of international tariffs on the tobacco industry.
