India’s Premium Cigar Market Growing At CAGR of 10-15%

Cigar Conexion has been at the forefront of shaping India's premium cigar culture, bringing international brands to a growing community of aficionados. Founded by Hemanth, the company has played a key role in making high-quality cigars accessible, offering them through retail stores, lounges, and online platforms across India.

In an interview with Bizz Buzz, Hemanth shares how cigars provide a gateway to the traditions and craftsmanship of their countries of origin. “Each cigar tells a story of the region it comes from—the soil, climate, and heritage shape its unique flavour,” he says. He highlights India’s evolving cigar culture, driven by increasing disposable income and the desire for luxury experiences.

Discussing the global influence, he explains how cigar etiquette, dedicated lounges, and international festivals contribute to a sophisticated and immersive experience. With Cigar Conexion’s efforts, he aims to not just grow sales but cultivate a deeper appreciation for cigars in India

What is the evolution of Cigars?

Cigars have a long history that spans over 2,000 years. They started in ancient Mesoamerica where people rolled and smoked tobacco leaves. The Spanish brought cigars to Europe in the 1500s. Cuba became famous for its cigars in the 1800s. Today, people all over the world enjoy cigars in different flavours, sizes, and shapes. Cigars are often smoked for relaxation and to celebrate special occasions.

How did Cigars come to be known in India and how big is the market?

Cigars were introduced to India by colonial elites, but they didn’t gain popularity until recent decades. The modern cigar culture in India has evolved significantly, driven by rapid urbanization, exposure to global luxury brands, and the desire for premium experiences.

Historically, Indians consumed local tobacco forms like beedis and cheroots. However, with the entry of global brands, affluent Indians have developed a taste for premium cigars, seeking luxurious rituals and exclusive experiences.

The Indian cigar market has grown substantially, with an increasing demand for high-end cigars. While there isn’t an official market size, estimates suggest that the Indian premium cigar market is growing at a CAGR of 10-15per cent.

Key factors contributing to this growth include:

- Increasing disposable income among affluent Indians

- Growing demand for luxury experiences and premium products

- Expansion of cigar lounges and dedicated smoking areas

- Rising popularity of online platforms for cigar sales and community building

Overall, the Indian cigar market is becoming increasingly sophisticated, with a growing demand for high-quality, exclusive, and unique cigar experiences.

How would you describe the cigar culture and the changing dynamics in India?

India’s cigar culture has evolved significantly, shifting from a niche luxury to a mainstream indulgence. The affluent and urbanized population drive the demand for premium cigars.

Specialized cigar lounges and exclusive smoking areas have proliferated, offering a sophisticated ambience. The growth of online platforms and social media has also fueled the cigar community, with enthusiasts sharing knowledge and experiences. This cultural shift reflects India’s rising aspirations and affinity for luxury lifestyles.

How important is the country of origin to cigars?

The country of origin is crucial to cigars, as it significantly impacts the flavor, quality, and character. Factors like climate, soil, and local traditions collectively known as terroir influence the tobacco’s unique profile. Nicaraguan cigars, for instance, are renowned for their distinct flavor and aroma, while Dominican Republic cigars are prized for their smoothness. Other countries like Honduras, and Indonesia also produce exceptional cigars. The country of origin serves as a guarantee of authenticity and quality.

Which countries are best known for their cigars and how would you describe the tradition and craftsmanship of these countries?

Several countries are renowned for their exceptional cigars, each with its unique tradition and craftsmanship. Here are a few notable ones:

♦ Dominican Republic: Famous for their smooth, balanced flavors, Dominican cigars are crafted with precision and attention to detail, often using traditional techniques passed down through generations. Some of the popular brands are Indian Motorcycle Cigars, Ashton, and Saga.

♦ Nicaragua: Nicaraguan cigars are prized for their bold, full-bodied flavors, reflecting the country’s volcanic soil and expert farming practices. Popular Nicaraguan cigar brands are Plasencia, Oliva, and Vedado.

♦ Honduras: Honduran cigars are known for their rich, earthy flavors, crafted using time honored techniques and high-quality tobaccos. One of the most sold premium handmade cigars in the world is from Honduras, the Rocky Patel Cigars. Honduras is also home to 4 of the factories of Plasencia.

How does the cigar experience promote the growth of luxury travel?

The cigar experience significantly promotes the growth of luxury travel by offering a unique blend of culture, history, and indulgence. Cigar enthusiasts embark on journeys to explore the world’s premier tobacco-growing regions, such as the Dominican Republic, Honduras and Nicaragua.

These pilgrimages allow connoisseurs to delve into the craft of cigar production, immerse themselves in local traditions, and acquire rare and exotic cigars. Cigar festivals and expos like Pro-Cigar, Inter Tabac not only encourage cigar aficionados from all corners of the world to travel to these countries but also showcase their culture and craftsmanship.

Luxury cigar lounges in cosmopolitan cities like London, New York, and Hong Kong serve as hubs for cultural exchange, where aficionados gather to share knowledge and stories. Travel enables cigar enthusiasts to experience the diverse ways cigars are celebrated globally, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among like-minded individuals. Ultimately, the cigar experience becomes an integral part of luxury travel, offering a rich and immersive experience that combines indulgence, exploration, and cultural discovery.

How would you describe the global cigar experience?

The global cigar experience is a rich tapestry of cultures, traditions, and indulgence. From the tobacco fields of Honduras and Nicaragua to the luxurious lounges of London and New York, cigar enthusiasts embark on a journey of discovery. The experience is marked by a sense of community, camaraderie, and refinement, as aficionados share knowledge, stories, and passions. It's a world where heritage meets innovation, and the pleasure of smoking is elevated to an art form.

What are the salient points that define cigar etiquette?

Cigar etiquette encompasses a set of unwritten rules that ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience for both the smoker and those around them. Key points include:

♦ Always ask permission before lighting up in someone’s presence or in a private space.

♦ Be mindful of non-smokers and avoid smoking in enclosed areas.

♦ Handle cigars with care, avoiding touching the wrapper or handling them roughly.

♦ Cut and light cigars correctly to avoid damaging the wrapper or disturbing others.

♦ Smoke slowly and deliberately, savoring the experience.

♦ Avoid smoking while walking, eating, or engaging in conversations.

♦ Dispose of cigar butts responsibly and respectfully.

How do you plan to promote the growth of cigars in India?

Our plan to promote the growth of cigars in India begins with educating consumers, as there are many misconceptions surrounding cigars. We aim to demystify the cigar experience by providing knowledge and guidance, helping people appreciate cigars in the right context. We’ve made cigars accessible and affordable by opening stores in key cities like Delhi, Bangalore, and Hyderabad. Additionally, our cigars are available in some of the country's top hotels, lounges, and prestigious clubs, as well as in Duty Free stores, ensuring a wide-reaching presence.

We also have a strong online platform, ensuring that our cigars reach every corner of the country, no matter the location. To further enhance the cigar culture, we’ve set up a premium cigar lounge in Bangalore where aficionados can relax and enjoy their cigars in a comfortable environment.

Our focus is not just on growing cigar sales but on nurturing a vibrant cigar-smoking culture in India. We aim to create spaces where people can appreciate the art of cigars, through curated events, educational sessions, and an emphasis on quality and experience.