CSWC Qualifier for Singaporeans to Be Held in Johor Bahru

With tobacco events banned in Singapore, a nearby CSWC qualifier offers aficionados a legal alternative just across the border.

In 2026, cigar lovers in Singapore will have a rare opportunity to participate in a Cigar Smoking World Championship (CSWC) qualifier—though not on home soil. Due to Singapore’s strict anti-tobacco laws, which prohibit any promotional events involving tobacco, the CSWC qualifier will instead be hosted just across the border in Johor Bahru, Malaysia.

The event will take place at the newly opened cigar lounge at the Trinidad Suites in Puteri Harbour, a premium venue located only 30 minutes from Singapore’s Tuas Checkpoint. The organiser, who wishes to remain anonymous for now, told CigarInspector.com that the goal is to offer Singaporean cigar enthusiasts a chance to gather and compete legally and comfortably, just outside their tightly regulated home country.

The CSWC, short for Cigar Smoking World Championship, is a globally recognised competition in which participants attempt to smoke a mareva-sized cigar (typically a petit corona) as slowly as possible without it going out. With strict rules and a friendly but competitive atmosphere, the event draws aficionados from around the world.

Oliva currently sponsors the CSWC circuit, taking over from previous sponsors such as Rocky Patel and Macanudo. Other key sponsors include Boveda, Les Fines Lames, DeArt Humidors, Dupont, Intertabac, Hulecos, and Bosquet Paris.

In Asia, pre-qualifying events are already held in Kuala Lumpur, Phuket, and Hong Kong, with growing interest from other nations for the 2026 season. The Johor Bahru qualifier marks a strategic effort to expand CSWC participation while navigating regional tobacco laws.

This Malaysia-based qualifier could serve as a model for future events in regions facing similar restrictions, offering cigar lovers a legal and enjoyable way to connect, compete, and celebrate the art of slow smoking.