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City Life Cigarillos Climb to $1.69 Pre-Price, the Line's Fourth Increase in Two Years
City Life five-packs move to a $1.69 printed price as Good Times USA adjusts margins. The new Diamond SKU marks a 30% per-stick increase since late 2024.
Good Times Adds Blue Raspberry to Sweet Woods Leaf as Two-Packs Rise to $1.69
Good Times USA expands its Sweet Woods Leaf limited editions with Blue Raspberry while implementing a price increase to $1.69 for its core two-pack pouches.
ALP Launches Frontier Collection: New Cowboy Coffee, Cinnamon, and Mango Pouches
ALP expands its nicotine pouch lineup with the limited-edition Frontier Collection, featuring new 4mg and 8mg strengths and a thinner, drier pouch format.
FDA to Replace 2021 PMTA Rule: A Faster Path for Hookah and Cigarillos?
The FDA announces plans to overhaul the 2021 PMTA framework, potentially speeding up authorizations for hookah tobacco, cigarillos, and other nicotine products.
Backwoods and White Owl Secure Top 2026 Convenience-Store New-Product Awards
Backwoods Irish Cream and White Owl Red, White & Berry take top honors in the 2026 Retailer's Choice and Hot New Products contests.
ALP Nicotine Pouches Enters Boxing Ring with Exclusive Matchroom Deal
ALP, co-owned by Turning Point Brands and Tucker Carlson, secures exclusive rights for three major Matchroom Boxing cards in the UK and Ireland this fall.
ZYN Debuts on Ferrari F1 Cars at Monza in Philip Morris Smoke-Free Push
Philip Morris International brings ZYN branding to Scuderia Ferrari at the 2026 Italian Grand Prix, launching "The Power of a Second" campaign.
J.C. Newman's The American Wins Best Brand at 2026 Cigar Trophy Awards
J.C. Newman’s 100% U.S.-grown 'The American' cigar takes top honors in the 'Other Countries' category at the prestigious 2026 Cigar Trophy awards in Dortmund.
J.C. Newman Hiring 100 Staff for New Hotel and Cigar Club at Tampa Factory
The maker of Factory Throwouts is expanding its Ybor City footprint with a boutique hotel, restaurant, and cigar lounge, creating 100 new hospitality and factor
Turning Point Brands Names David Glazek CEO as Zig-Zag Parent Trims 2026 Profit Outlook
Turning Point Brands CEO Graham Purdy resigns, succeeded by David Glazek. The Zig-Zag parent company also narrowed its 2026 EBITDA guidance amid rising costs.
Federal Data: Pipe Tobacco Shipments Fell 8.5% in First Half of 2026
New TTB data shows a continued multi-year slide for pipe tobacco shipments, with first-half 2026 volumes down 8.5% amid shifting tax pressures and market trends
Backwoods Red Velvet: New Dessert-Flavored Limited Edition Surfaces in Early Rollout
A new Red Velvet limited-edition Backwoods cigar has surfaced via industry alerts and social media, marking the brand's latest dessert-themed natural leaf relea
ZYN Owner Issues Cease-and-Desist to Congresswoman Over 'Glue-ZYN-Kamp' Campaign Tin
Philip Morris International forced Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez to pull $50 ZYN-styled campaign merchandise, citing trademark violations in a swing-district stu
Cheyenne Cigars Launches 'Take Flight' Sweepstakes: $1,000 Airline Gift Card Up for Grabs
Cheyenne International announces a new 'Take Flight' sweepstakes for adult consumers, offering a $1,000 airline gift card through October 20, 2026.
Fumari Expands Fifty-Fifty Hybrid Shisha Line with Three Non-Mint Flavors
Fumari adds Ambrosia, Spiced Chai, and Hola Peaches to its Fifty-Fifty line, a 50/50 blend of blonde and dark-leaf tobacco with enhanced nicotine.
Havana Leaf Goes Small: Dominican Whole-Leaf Wraps Now Come in $1.99 Two-Packs
Havana Leaf expands its Dominican whole-leaf lineup with 'Little Havana' two-packs, offering ten flavors in a portable, pre-priced $1.99 format.
Good Times Moves Its Mini Cigarillos to a $1.29 Pre-Price in Line's Second Recent Increase
Good Times has raised the printed price on its three-count Mini cigarillos to $1.29, matching the rest of its value lineup amid market pressures.
Grabba Leaf Showcases Whole-Leaf Wraps at InterTabac 2026 in Dortmund
Florida-based Grabba Leaf exhibited its natural whole-leaf tobacco and cigar wraps at InterTabac 2026, targeting 14,500 international buyers in Germany.
Backwoods Adds Philadelphia to City Packs: 'Broad Street Sweet' Is the Sixth Limited-Edition Release
Backwoods expands its 2026 City Packs series with the Philadelphia-themed 'Broad Street Sweet,' a limited-edition natural leaf cigarillo now hitting retailers.
LooseLeaf Debuts 'Slugs': Pre-Rolled Whole-Leaf Tobacco Cones with Glass Tips
LooseLeaf expands into pre-rolls with Slugs, featuring hand-cut whole-leaf tobacco and integrated glass mouthpieces for a premium, no-roll experience.
Swisher Sweets Refreshes Packaging and Launches New Flavors Including Purple Razz and Georgia Peach
Swisher Sweets undergoes a 2026 brand refresh, introducing new flavors like Orange Cream and Georgia Peach across its Classic, Leaf, and Leaf Wrap lines.
FDA Names Bret Koplow Permanent Tobacco Director: Impact on Cigars, Hookah, and Pouches
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has appointed Bret Koplow as the permanent director of the FDA’s Center for Tobacco Products.
Game Rotates Limited Editions: Miami Sunset Arrives as Pacific Nectar Looms
Game's 2026 natural-leaf rotation continues as Miami Sunset hits shelves and Pacific Nectar is announced as the next limited-edition cigarillo release.
ZYN Expands Lineup with 1.5mg and 8mg Strengths, Increases Can Count to 20 Pouches
PMI U.S. announces new ZYN nicotine strengths and a transition to 20-count cans for its core dry pouch line, signaling a major shift in its value proposition.
White Owl Teases Arctic Grape as Its Next Limited-Edition Cigarillo
White Owl announces Arctic Grape as its latest limited-edition flavor, following the brand's recent success with award-winning seasonal releases.
Drew Estate Launches DE30 Rewards: Loyalty Points for ACID and Premium Cigar Purchases
Drew Estate celebrates 30 years with DE30 Rewards, an app-based loyalty program offering exclusive merchandise for qualifying cigar purchases through March 2027
Black & Mild Volume Rose 5% While Mass Cigar Market Fell 6%: Altria Q2 Report Analysis
Altria's Q2 2026 results reveal Black & Mild shipments rose 5.2% to 503 million sticks, significantly outperforming a declining mass-market cigar industry.
ZYN Launches 'When It Clicks' Campaign and Unveils America250 Artist Series Cases
PMI U.S. debuts a national brand platform and limited-edition metal cases designed by five American artists, signaling a major marketing push for ZYN through 20
Davidoff Exits ProCigar After 34 Years: A Shift in Dominican Industry Strategy
Davidoff and TABADOM have ended their 34-year membership in ProCigar, opting to focus on global regulatory advocacy and direct market priorities.
Al Fakher Parent AIR Global Reports First Earnings: 65% U.S. Market Share Amid Supply Scramble
AIR Global's first post-IPO report reveals Al Fakher's 65% U.S. market share and how the Strait of Hormuz closure disrupted 70% of shipment volumes.
Older news
September 2026 (5)
Altria Sues FDA Over PMTA Delays, Demanding Overhaul of Tobacco Product Reviews
Altria Group subsidiaries have filed a federal lawsuit against the FDA, seeking to vacate the 2021 PMTA rule and enforce statutory 180-day review deadlines.
STG Reports Steady H1 2026 Results as Captain Black and Borkum Riff Remain Core
Scandinavian Tobacco Group reports stable H1 2026 results, divestment of German brands to Japan Tobacco, and continued focus on premium cigars and pipe tobacco.
Federal Appeals Court Upholds California's Flavored-Tobacco Gatekeeper Law
The Ninth Circuit has ruled against premium cigar makers, upholding California's 'Unflavored Tobacco List' and its strict pre-sale approval requirements.
New York’s 75% Nicotine Pouch Tax Starts September 1: What Consumers Need to Know
New York implements a 75% wholesale tax on nicotine pouches starting Sept. 1, 2026, including a 'floor tax' on existing inventory that will spike retail prices.
Imperial Brands Restructures: Job Cuts and Vape Exit for Backwoods and Dutch Masters Maker
Imperial Brands cuts thousands of jobs and exits the U.S. vape market to focus on its core cigar portfolio, including Backwoods and Dutch Masters.
August 2026 (53)
Camacho Limited Edition 2026 Perfecto Arrives in September: Only 4,000 Boxes Worldwide
Camacho's 'Boldly Built by Masters' series returns with a 6 x 56 perfecto. Shipping Sept 3, this limited Honduran release is capped at 60,000 total cigars.
Honduras Announces First National Cigar Festival as Central American Calendar Fills
Honduras will host its first national cigar festival in January 2027, joining a busy Central American calendar as the region fills the void left by Cuba.
Kenya High Court Lifts Shisha Ban: A Rare Legal Win for Hookah With a Catch
Kenya's High Court ruled the 2017 shisha ban unconstitutional due to procedural flaws, though the government is already drafting new legislation to reinstate it
Europe's Triple Squeeze: 139% Tobacco Tax Plan, New Product Rules, and a Lobbying Scandal
The EU faces a massive tobacco policy shift involving a 139% tax hike proposal, new TPD3 regulations for vapes and pouches, and an escalating lobbying scandal.
Canada’s Pharmacy-Only Nicotine Pouch Rule Triggers Massive Black Market Surge
Following strict federal restrictions, Canada faces a surge in contraband nicotine pouches as border seizures hit C$6.6 million and provincial leaders push back
Nas-Backed Escobar Cigars Expands: New House Blend and Natural-Leaf 'CUTS' Wraps Launch
Escobar Cigars, co-owned by hip-hop legend Nas, launches a new House Blend collection and enters the natural-leaf wrap market with Nicaraguan Habano 'Leaf CUTS.
The FDA Is Getting a New Boss: What Heidi Overton's Nomination Means for Tobacco
President Trump nominates Dr. Heidi Overton as FDA Commissioner. Her arrival comes as the agency pivots toward faster nicotine product authorizations.
Australia Debates Massive Tobacco Tax Cut as Black Market Dominates Sales
Australia, home to the world's most expensive cigarettes, is weighing a historic 75-80% tax cut after high prices fueled a multi-billion dollar black market.
Xikar Redesigns Allume Lighters With Convergent Flames and Lower Prices
Xikar replaces its original Allume series with re-engineered models featuring improved airflow, converging jets, and a significantly lower price point.
A Cigar Called 'The World's Strongest' Just Hit Shelves — Here's What's Actually in It
The World's Strongest Cigar returns as a 500-box exclusive. Blended by HVC's Reinier Lorenzo, this ligero-heavy Nicaraguan smoke makes a bold marketing claim.
Bollywood Stars Face Regulatory Notices Over Tobacco-Linked 'Surrogate' Advertising
India's FDA issues notices to Shah Rukh Khan, Ajay Devgn, and Tiger Shroff over Vimal Elaichi ads, alleging they bypass bans on tobacco promotion.
Rolling Papers Forecast to Hit $2.5 Billion by 2033 Amid Shifting Sales Data
A new market report projects global rolling paper growth to $2.5 billion, even as major U.S. players like Zig-Zag report shifting revenue trends.
The Whiskey Executive Leading a 160-Year-Old Cigar Family: Inside Ed Bello's Plasencia
Ed Bello, a veteran of Diageo and P&G, marks 18 months as CEO of Plasencia Cigars, bringing a luxury spirits playbook to the storied tobacco family.
Why Tech's Biggest Trial Invokes Big Tobacco: Meta, $1.4 Trillion, and the Ghost of 1998
Legal experts and state attorneys general are using the 1998 Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement as a blueprint for massive litigation against Meta.
Kuwait Goes Tobacco-21: Sweeping New Rules Ban Under-21 Sales, Online Orders, and All Advertising
Kuwait enacts Ministerial Resolution 237/2026, raising the nicotine age to 21 and banning all online sales, home delivery, and advertising effective January 202
India's Karnataka State Renews Gutkha Ban, Targeting the 'Two-Pouch' Loophole
Karnataka has issued a fresh one-year ban on gutkha and tobacco-laced pan masala, specifically targeting the common industry workaround of split-sachet sales.
World's Largest Online Pouch Retailer Reports Record Sales as U.S. Volumes Surge 125%
Haypp Group's Q2 2026 report shows a 27.7% sales jump, driven by a massive shift toward online nicotine pouch purchases in the U.S. and U.K. markets.
The $12 Billion Handover: Djarum Clove-Cigarette Heirs Receive Massive Inheritance
The four heirs of Djarum co-owner Michael Bambang Hartono have inherited stakes worth nearly $12 billion, marking one of Asia's largest wealth transfers.
Denver Sues Big Tobacco Over Cigarette Butts, Demanding Cleanup Costs
Denver joins a growing wave of cities suing major tobacco manufacturers over the environmental impact and cleanup costs of plastic cigarette filters.
Retailers Crown 2026 'Hot New Products': White Owl and on! PLUS Take Top Backbar Honors
CStore Decisions' 2026 contest reveals the top-performing backbar trends: seasonal cigarillos and next-gen nicotine pouches dominate retailer scorecards.
Nicotine Gummies and 'Cocrystals': Chinese Patents Hint at the Future of Oral Nicotine
New Chinese patent filings reveal R&D into dual-layer nicotine gummies and stable 'cocrystals,' signaling a global race to innovate beyond the standard...
Australia's Record Tobacco Raid: 100 Gas Stations Hit as Black Market Hits 80%
Operation Shorthand raids 100+ Metro Petroleum sites as data reveals illicit tobacco may now account for 80% of Australian nicotine consumption.
95%-Less-Nicotine Cigarette Goes National: 22nd Century Targets 5,000 Stores
22nd Century Group plans to double its VLN retail footprint to 5,000 stores, testing consumer demand for the FDA-authorized reduced-nicotine cigarette.
Senate Inquiry Launched Into Federal Flavored Vape and Kratom Policy Decisions
Senator Ron Wyden opens a corruption inquiry into the federal government's shift on flavored nicotine and kratom, citing concerns over industry donations.
Global Leaf Glut Squeezes Tobacco Trade: Universal Corp Reports Q1 Fiscal 2027 Loss
Universal Corporation reports a $5 million net loss as a global tobacco leaf oversupply leads to cautious buying and a 12% revenue drop in fiscal Q1 2027.
Turning Point Brands Q2 2026: Oral Nicotine Sales Surge 54% as Zig-Zag Remains Stable
Turning Point Brands reports a 23% jump in consolidated net sales, driven by triple-digit growth in its modern oral nicotine pouch portfolio.
Wholesale Cigar Prices Just Went Up: Inside the August Increase From STG's U.S. Divisions
Scandinavian Tobacco Group’s U.S. divisions, Forged and General Cigar Co., implemented a wholesale price increase averaging 3.5% to 4.2% this August.
Spain Proposes Sweeping Outdoor Smoking Ban Targeting Terraces, Beaches, and Hookah
Spain's new draft law seeks to ban smoking and hookah on terraces, beaches, and parks, signaling a major shift in European tobacco regulation.
Russian Strikes Destroy Tobacco Warehouses in Ukraine, Wiping Out Millions in Stock
Overnight strikes in Ukraine destroyed JTI and Imperial Brands warehouses, causing millions in losses and killing six workers at nearby logistics centers.
Philip Morris AI Campaign Ruled as Illegal Advertising by Dutch Watchdog
The Dutch Advertising Code Committee reprimanded Philip Morris for using AI to generate thousands of public submissions to an EU tobacco consultation.
Ohio Supreme Court Weighs State Power to Sue Tobacco Shops Over Federal Rules
The Ohio Supreme Court is reviewing whether state officials can use consumer-protection laws to sue retailers for selling federally unauthorized nicotine produc
Nicotine Gum Outperforms Counseling for Smokeless Tobacco Cessation in New Trial
A 2026 study in Scientific Reports finds 2mg nicotine gum manages withdrawal symptoms more effectively than behavioral counseling in dental settings.
HBI Innovations Acquires RAW Genetics IP to Consolidate Global Brand Identity
HBI Innovations, the parent company of RAW rolling papers, has acquired the RAW Genetics trademark to unify its brand and prepare for future category expansion.
FDA Clears Four More on! Nicotine Pouches as Flavor Debate Reignites
The FDA has authorized four on! PLUS nicotine pouch products from Altria subsidiary Helix Innovations, marking a significant milestone in the PMTA review pilot.
Pouches Take Over the Backbar as Cigarettes Lose Shelf Space
New 2026 data shows oral nicotine pouches now claim over 50% of smokeless sales, forcing convenience stores to shrink cigarette displays in favor of higher marg
Fake Nicotine Pouches Rolled Off a Kaunas Production Line: Inside the EU's Latest Counterfeit Bust
European investigators dismantle a sophisticated illegal factory in Lithuania producing over 330,000 boxes of counterfeit nicotine pouches for global markets.
California Seizes $168 Million in Illicit Tobacco and Cannabis Since 2019
California tax authorities have pulled $168 million in unregulated products off shelves, including $22 million in the first half of 2026 alone.
British American Tobacco Raises $1.5 Billion as Smokeless Nears 20% of Revenue
BAT prices a $1.5 billion debt offering as its smoke-free portfolio—including Velo and Vuse—now accounts for nearly a fifth of total group revenue.
Swedish Study Finds Mouth Lesions in 79% of Nicotine Pouch Users — With Major Caveats
A Karolinska Institutet study found oral tissue lesions in 79% of pouch users, though researchers note the sample was not representative of all users.
Maya Selva Named Knight of the Legion of Honor: France Recognizes Cigar Pioneer
Maya Selva, founder of Maya Selva Cigars, has been appointed Chevalier de la Légion d'honneur, a rare national distinction for the premium cigar industry.
Philip Morris Opens $1.2 Billion ZYN Factory in Colorado to Meet Surging Demand
Philip Morris International has launched a $1.2 billion ZYN manufacturing campus in Aurora, Colorado, marking its first U.S. greenfield production complex.
Inside Davidoff's Playbook: Why the Luxury Cigar Maker Is Betting on Vertical Integration
CEO Beat Hauenstein reveals how Oettinger Davidoff’s 'seed-to-smoke' vertical integration and Aspire727 strategy are driving global luxury growth.
China Drafts Rules for Heated Tobacco: Why the Global Industry Is Watching
China's tobacco regulator has released a draft mandatory national standard for heated tobacco products, a move that could reshape global hardware specifications
Byron 175 Tribute Set: A $205 Luxury Time Capsule Commemorating 175 Years
Selected Tobacco announces the Byron 175 Tribute Set, a limited $205 collector's release featuring four long-aged cigars celebrating a lineage dating to 1850.
La Aurora Goes Value: The New Santiago Collection Puts Handmade Cigars Under $3
La Aurora, the Dominican Republic’s oldest factory, debuts the Santiago Collection—a handmade, mixed-filler line priced between $2.50 and $3.00 per cigar.
Smoker Friendly Takes Equity Stake in Casa 1910 to Boost Mexican Premium Cigars
The largest U.S. brick-and-mortar tobacco retailer, Smoker Friendly, has acquired an ownership stake in Mexican cigar specialist Casa 1910.
Al Fakher Parent AIR Global Invests $20 Million in Vape Tech Firm Greentank
AIR Global, the parent of Al Fakher, has secured a $20 million stake in Greentank Innovations to bolster its next-generation nicotine hardware supply chain.
Earnings Season Splits Big Tobacco: Smoke-Free Pivoters Win While Laggards Slip
Q2 2026 results reveal a widening gap in the tobacco industry, as companies like BAT surge on smoke-free products while Altria faces pressure from legacy segmen
Christian Eiroa Returns to Reblend the Saint Luis Rey for 30th Anniversary
Master blender Christian Eiroa returns to Saint Luis Rey, the brand that launched his career in 1996, for a special 30th-anniversary Honduran Corojo release.
Selling Nicotine in America: A 2026 Mid-Year Regulatory Reality Check
A new industry briefing reveals a fragmented U.S. nicotine market where federal approval is no longer enough to guarantee shelf space amid rising state-level ru
Court Revives Class Action Over Natural American Spirit 'Natural' Labels
The 10th Circuit Court of Appeals has revived a class-action lawsuit against British American Tobacco over 'natural' and 'additive-free' cigarette marketing.
How Big Tobacco's Playbook Ended Up in Your Snacks: A Study of Industry History
A 2026 study reveals how tobacco giants applied flavor-and-addiction science to ultra-processed foods during decades of corporate ownership.
Beyond the Cigar: Smart Lighters and Sustainable Cutters Shape 2026's Accessory Trends
From biometric lighters to eco-friendly cutters, the $2 billion cigar accessory market is undergoing a high-tech and sustainable transformation in 2026.
July 2026 (97)
Most Young Nicotine Users Say 2026 Is Their Year to Quit — What a New Survey Found
A Truth Initiative survey reveals 67% of nicotine users aged 18–24 plan to quit in 2026, driven by health concerns despite a market of stronger, cheaper product
Rocky Patel Digs Into the Vault: The New Sapphire Line Is Built on Long-Aged Tobacco
Rocky Patel debuts Sapphire, a new flagship-tier line featuring fillers aged up to seven years and a rich Mexican San Andrés wrapper.
The Changing Face of Nicotine Pouches: Women Are the Fastest-Growing Buyers
Once dominated by men, the nicotine pouch market is seeing a surge in female consumers, reshaping retail trends and product marketing for 2026.
U.S. Judge Dismisses North Korea Sanctions Case Against British American Tobacco
A federal judge has dismissed criminal charges against BAT following the company's full compliance with a $630 million deferred prosecution agreement.
PCA Goes Global: Trade Group Debuts First International Exclusive Cigar in Dubai
The Premium Cigar Association (PCA) partners with La Palina and The Leaf Master for 'Yalla Habeebi,' a Gulf-exclusive release debuting at the 2026 Dubai World C
Hooten Young Secures U.S. Design Patent for Bullet-Shaped 'The Cartridge' Cigar
Veteran-founded Hooten Young has been granted a 15-year design patent for its .50-caliber bullet-shaped cigar, protecting the unique 'Cartridge' silhouette.
Sweden Becomes World's First 'Smoke-Free' Nation as Smoking Rate Hits 3.7%
Sweden has surpassed the WHO 'smoke-free' threshold 15 years ahead of schedule, driven by a massive shift from cigarettes to oral nicotine pouches and snus.
Could Ozempic Curb Nicotine Cravings? What the 2026 Research Actually Shows
New 2026 studies suggest GLP-1 medications like Ozempic may dull nicotine cravings by modulating dopamine pathways, though clinical proof remains pending.
Pentagon May Offer Troops Smoke-Free Nicotine: Inside the House Defense-Bill Proposal
A new House defense-bill provision proposes a Pentagon pilot program offering smoke-free nicotine alternatives to service members to reduce combustible tobacco
The World's Biggest Tobacco Trade Show Returns: A Preview of InterTabac 2026
InterTabac 2026 returns to Dortmund this September, showcasing the global shift toward next-generation products alongside traditional cigars and pipes.
Virginia Cracks Down on Vape Retailers: What the New Enforcement Law Actually Requires
Virginia's Vape Enforcement Act introduces a mandatory product registry and steep daily fines for non-compliant retailers effective April 2026.
Why Do People Reach for Nicotine Pouches? New Survey Cites Quitting as a Primary Driver
A 2026 report from Haypp Group reveals nearly half of nicotine pouch users started the habit to quit smoking or vaping, though experts urge caution on the data.
FDA Renews IQOS Authorizations: What Heated Tobacco's Special Status Means in 2026
The FDA has renewed reduced-exposure marketing orders for Philip Morris International’s IQOS, maintaining its unique regulatory standing in the U.S. market.
Cuba’s Cigar World Feels the Crisis: Habanos Festival Canceled as Island Reels
Cuba cancels the 2026 Festival del Habano and loses a major hotel partner, signaling severe strain for the world's most famous premium tobacco producer.
The 2026 Push Against Plastic Filters: Addressing the World’s Most-Littered Trash
Global regulators are targeting single-use plastic cigarette filters in 2026, with new bans and producer-responsibility fees emerging in Europe and the U.S.
Smoking, but Make It a Sport: Inside the 2026 Cigar Smoking World Championship
The Cigar Smoking World Championship (CSWC) turns patience into a sport. Discover how competitors stretch a single cigar for hours ahead of the 2026 Grand Final
Convenience-Store Dealmaking Roars Back in 2026: Consolidation Reshapes Tobacco Retail
After a quiet 2025, a surge in convenience-store mergers and acquisitions is reshaping where Americans buy tobacco, driven by major players like Sunoco LP.
Cigar Lounges Are Booming in 2026, but State Laws Create a Complex Legal Puzzle
As premium cigar lounges expand across the U.S., a patchwork of state laws and recent vetoes in Alaska highlight the regulatory hurdles for indoor smoking.
Canada Certifies First National Class-Action Against Juul and Altria Over Vaping Marketing
The British Columbia Supreme Court has certified Canada's first national class-action against Juul and Altria, allowing claims over marketing to proceed.
Guy Fieri Revealed as Partner in Espinosa’s New Dominican Cigar Factory
Food Network star Guy Fieri moves from collaborator to factory owner, partnering with Erik Espinosa on a 30,000-square-foot Dominican Republic facility.
Malawi's Tobacco Growers Face Brutal 2026 as Prices and Buyer Demand Collapse
Malawi's 'green gold' economy faces a crisis in 2026 as oversupply and a shrinking buyer pool send tobacco prices tumbling, leaving farmers in mounting debt.
Big Tobacco Wins as FDA Eases Grip: Inside the 2026 Enforcement Shift
The FDA adopts 'enforcement discretion' for unauthorized nicotine products, a move analysts say favors major manufacturers and could flood the market with new o
AVO Reinvents Itself: New 'Expresivo' Line Is the First AVO Ever Made in Honduras
AVO debuts Expresivo, a multi-terroir blend featuring Honduran tobacco and a brand-wide identity refresh, marking a major evolution for the Davidoff-owned label
Villiger Expands Flagship Line with New 1888 San Andrés Cigar
Swiss heritage brand Villiger adds a bold, box-pressed San Andrés expression to its 1888 line, featuring Mexican wrappers and Nicaraguan fillers.
Macanudo Refreshes Core Lineup with New Ecuadorian Shade and Sumatra Cigars
General Cigar Co. expands the Macanudo portfolio with two value-priced core lines featuring Ecuadorian Shade and Sumatra wrappers, starting at just $6.99.
Punch Gives Its Mascot the Spotlight: The Affordable 'Mr. Punch' Hits Stores
Punch Cigars introduces Mr. Punch by Punch, a value-driven, full-time release featuring an Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper and the brand's largest cigar to date.
Smokeless Products Emerge as Only Growing Segment in 2026 Nicotine Market
New data from NielsenIQ and Goldman Sachs reveals smokeless nicotine is the only growing U.S. category, while cigarettes, cigars, and vapes see declines.
Fifty Years of Don Carlos: Arturo Fuente Marks Milestone With Two New Cigars
Arturo Fuente celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Don Carlos brand with the Father & Son 2026 Historic Collection, featuring two never-before-released...
Mike Tyson’s Tyson 2.0 Brand Expands in 2026: New Markets, Biopics, and Wraps
From a Connecticut market expansion to a Jamie Foxx biopic, Mike Tyson’s Tyson 2.0 brand is dominating the smoking accessory and cannabis lifestyle space in 202
Perez-Carrillo Ships Encore Noir II: A Rare All-Nicaraguan Limited Release
Casa Carrillo releases the Encore Noir II, a scarce 15,000-cigar run featuring tobacco aged for over five years, with a limited U.S. launch in July 2026.
ITG Brands Acquires Black Buffalo for $150M in Tobacco-Free 'Dip' Expansion
ITG Brands, the U.S. arm of Imperial Brands, acquires tobacco-free dip maker Black Buffalo for $150 million to diversify its smoke-free nicotine portfolio.
Inside 2026's Illegal-Tobacco Crackdown: Record Seizures and Tougher Laws
Governments are deploying unprecedented resources to combat the tobacco black market in 2026, resulting in record-breaking seizures and stricter penalties.
The Tobacco Backbar Rebuilt: Retailers Shift Shelf Space as Nicotine Pouches Surge in 2026
Industry data from 2026 reveals a major shift in retail shelf space, with oral nicotine pouches gaining ground as traditional cigarette unit sales soften.
Federal Agencies Release Wave 8 PATH Study Data: A New Look at U.S. Tobacco Trends
The FDA and NIH have released Wave 8 of the PATH Study, providing critical longitudinal data on how Americans used tobacco and nicotine throughout 2024.
Rolling-Paper Giant RAW Acquires RAW Genetics Brand, Expanding Into Cannabis Seeds
RAW Rolling Papers has acquired the intellectual property of RAW Genetics, a Southern California seed breeder, marking a major vertical expansion into the plant
50% U.S. Duty on Brazilian Tobacco Leaf to Impact Supply Chains in 2026
A steep 50% U.S. import duty on Brazilian tobacco leaf is set to disrupt supply chains as existing contracts expire, potentially impacting consumer prices in 20
Roll-Your-Own Tobacco Gains Market Share in 2026 as Smokers Seek Value
As factory-made cigarette prices climb, the roll-your-own (RYO) market is projected to hit $6.02 billion by 2033, driven by significant per-stick cost savings.
Montecristo Expands Espada Line with Plasencia-Made 'Conquistador' Nicaraguan Puro
Altadis U.S.A. partners with the Plasencia family for the Montecristo Espada Conquistador, a medium-full Nicaraguan puro shipping in four premium vitolas.
Health Groups Sue FDA Over 'Lax' Enforcement of Unauthorized Vapes and Pouches
A coalition of health groups and parents has sued the FDA, alleging a May 2026 guidance creates an illegal 'safe harbor' for unauthorized nicotine products.
Drew Estate Adds an 'After-Hours' Smoke: Deadwood Dominicana Buenas Noches
Drew Estate extends its Deadwood line with Buenas Noches, a darker, cocoa-forward smoke featuring a sweetened cap and Connecticut broadleaf wrapper.
Oregon Supreme Court Declines Review, Finalizing County-Level Flavored Tobacco Bans
The Oregon Supreme Court has declined to review Multnomah County's flavor ban, cementing local restrictions that impact roughly one-third of the state's residen
A Lancet Journal Reignites the 'Safer Nicotine' Debate: New Zealand as a Case Study
New research in The Lancet Regional Health explores how regulated smoke-free nicotine alternatives contributed to New Zealand's rapid decline in smoking rates.
Germany Proposes Steep Tobacco Tax Hikes: Cigarette Prices Could Hit €12 by 2030
Germany's Finance Ministry outlines a plan for aggressive annual tax increases on cigarettes, roll-your-own tobacco, and e-liquids through 2030.
Turning Point Brands Pushes ALP Nicotine Pouches Into 11 International Markets
Turning Point Brands scales up ALP nicotine pouches with a July 2026 international rollout and a new Lithuanian manufacturing deal to produce 50 million units.
Joya de Nicaragua Ships Green Room Selection: A Cigar With a White House Past
Joya de Nicaragua revives its 1970s White House history with the limited Clásico Original Green Room Selection, a mild 6 x 54 diadema limited to 1,200 boxes.
CAO Revives America Blend with All-U.S. Tobacco for the Nation's 250th Anniversary
CAO celebrates the U.S. semiquincentennial with a limited-edition barber-pole robusto featuring 100% American-grown tobacco leaves.
Collectors’ Corner: Cornell & Diehl’s Club-Anniversary Blends Headline 2026’s Limited Pipe Tins
Cornell & Diehl marks the Chicagoland Pipe Collectors Club's 30th anniversary with exclusive small-batch tins, alongside new limited releases from Kopp.
North Carolina Imposes $1,000 Annual Tax on Vape Shops and Mandates 21+ ID Checks
North Carolina's new $34.4 billion budget introduces a $1,000 annual retailer tax and strict age-verification requirements for all vape product sales.
The 'Smoke-Free Generation' Goes Global: Birth-Year Tobacco Bans Gain Ground in 2026
A new wave of 'generational' tobacco bans is taking hold globally in 2026, permanently barring specific birth cohorts from ever legally purchasing tobacco.
Nine Cigar Makers Sue FDA for $10 Million in User-Fee Refunds
Nine major premium cigar manufacturers have filed a lawsuit seeking over $10 million in refunds for FDA user fees paid between 2016 and 2023.
Topper Cigar Co. Ships 1894 Broadleaf: A 130-Year Heritage Brand Expands Value Line
Topper Cigar Co. expands its 1894 line with a new Broadleaf blend, offering a value-priced, rich maduro profile rooted in 130 years of American family history.
My Father's Coveted Le Bijou 1922 '100 Años' Returns for 2026
The biennial Le Bijou 1922 100 Años returns to shelves. With only 1,922 boxes per size, this Nicaraguan puro is one of the year's most limited cigar releases.
Conor McGregor's Notorious Cigars Hit Store Shelves: Unapologetic and Crème de la Crème Now Shipping
UFC star Conor McGregor’s Notorious Cigars are officially arriving at retailers, featuring the bold Unapologetic and the smoother Crème de la Crème lines.
The World's Biggest Shisha Brand Goes Hollywood: Al Fakher's Celebrity Hookah Collabs
Al Fakher, the world's leading shisha brand, is launching high-profile collaborations with Snoop Dogg and Cookies to reach a new generation of adult smokers.
VELO Chases the Flavor Trend: BAT's Pouch Brand Rolls Out Exotic 2026 Additions
British American Tobacco expands its VELO nicotine pouch lineup with tropical and spicy profiles like Guava Jalapeño, signaling a shift away from mint dominance
Swisher Sweets Makes Honey Banana Permanent: Inside the Brand's Limited-Edition Strategy
After a successful limited run, Swisher Sweets promotes Honey Banana to its permanent lineup, signaling a shift in its 2026 flavor rotation strategy.
Shopify Pulls the Plug on Vape Sales: Platform-Wide E-Cigarette Ban Reshapes Online Retail
Shopify announces a platform-wide ban on e-cigarettes and vaping products following pressure from a 25-state coalition of attorneys general.
Federal Study Investigates Hookah Risks: 'The Water Cools the Smoke, But Doesn't Filter It'
A new $442,763 federal study at UT Arlington examines how hookah configurations and electronic heating elements impact smoker exposure to harmful compounds.
Is the Cigarette Really 'Cool' Again? Fact-Checking the Gen Z Smoking Trend
Headlines suggest a Gen Z smoking revival, but federal data shows cigarette use at historic lows. We examine the gap between viral aesthetics and reality.
Wall Street Warms Back Up to Tobacco in 2026: The Shift to Smoke-Free Formats
Tobacco stocks are outpacing the S&P 500 in 2026 as Philip Morris and Altria pivot from cigarettes to high-growth nicotine pouches and heated tobacco...
Energy-Drink Nicotine Pouches Go Mainstream: SNÜ’s ‘Fizzy Energy’ Joins Growing Flavor Trend
SNÜ launches 'Fizzy Energy' nicotine pouches, signaling a shift toward beverage-inspired flavors like soda and energy drinks in the oral nicotine market.
Gary Payton’s RAW Papers Partnership Brings Celebrity Branding to the Rolling Aisle
NBA legend Gary Payton and RAW founder Josh Kesselman expand their organic hemp paper collaboration, signaling a shift toward collectible, branded rolling acces
California’s Flavor Ban Gets Teeth: How the 2026 Unflavored Tobacco List Impacts Cigars
California's new Unflavored Tobacco List (UTL) shifts the burden of proof to manufacturers, effectively removing flavored cigarillos and wraps from state shelve
Hawaii Becomes First State to Ban Disposable Vapes: A Shift in Nicotine Regulation
Governor Josh Green signs a historic statewide ban on disposable vapes effective 2027, signaling a new era of strict nicotine product registries and enforcement
Turning Point Brands Bets Future on FRE Pouches as 2026 Growth Engine
Turning Point Brands reports a 133% surge in FRE nicotine pouch sales, signaling a major shift away from legacy rolling paper and smokeless tobacco segments.
Why RAW Changed Its Packaging: Inside the Rolling-Paper Trademark Wars
A federal appeals court has upheld a nationwide injunction against RAW rolling papers, forcing marketing changes after a long-running false-advertising battle.
Pipe Tobacco and Smokeless Face 2026 Tax Squeeze as Michigan Leads Multi-State Push
Michigan proposes nearly doubling taxes on pipe tobacco and snuff, part of a 2026 wave of statehouse efforts to hike rates on non-cigarette nicotine products.
The Cigar Jobs Act: Congress Moves to Lock In Premium Cigars' FDA Exemption
The Cigar Jobs Act aims to codify the premium cigar exemption into federal law, providing permanent relief from FDA oversight for handmade tobacco products.
The Latest Cigar Numbers Are In: Premium Holds Firm While Budget Cigars Slip
New U.S. import data reveals a market split: premium handmade cigars remain steady above 400 million units while mass-market budget cigars face regulatory press
Imperial Brands Doubles Down on Smoke-Free Bets in 2026 Strategy Update
Imperial Brands reports double-digit growth in next-generation products like vapes and pouches, signaling a strategic shift away from traditional combustible vo
Cigar Bar Laws in 2026: Where Indoor Lounges Are Gaining Ground — and Where They're Losing It
Statehouses across the U.S. are debating 'cigar bar' exemptions to indoor smoking bans. From Iowa's stalled bill to Maryland's ongoing debate, the map is shifti
Stronger Nicotine Pouches Hit the Shelf: Rogue Max and on! PLUS Push Strengths Higher
Rogue Max and on! PLUS lead a new industry trend toward higher nicotine strengths, offering experienced adult users doses up to 15mg in softer, moist formats.
Rocky Patel Marks 30 Years With a Limited-Edition Toro Now Reaching Shops
Rocky Patel celebrates three decades with an ultra-premium, 10,000-cigar limited release featuring aged Nicaraguan fillers and a Mexican wrapper.
Al Capone Cigarillos Gain 2026 Momentum with Natural-Leaf Growth and Cash Sweepstakes
Al Capone is driving 2026 growth with a 'Turn a New Leaf' sweepstakes, a summer event tour, and award-winning retail performance in the natural-leaf category.
Pipe Tobacco Scarcity and Price Hikes: The 2026 Sutliff Fallout and New Taxes
The closure of Sutliff’s Richmond plant and new state excise taxes are driving up prices and reducing bulk pipe tobacco availability for smokers in 2026.
Hookah’s Global Boom Meets Regulatory Pressure: The 2026 Shisha Market Outlook
The global shisha market is projected to reach $11.4 billion by 2034, but looming flavor regulations and state taxes create a complex landscape for hookah fans.
Altadis Ships Jogo Bonito World Cup Sampler Featuring Montecristo and Romeo y Julieta
Altadis U.S.A. celebrates the 2026 FIFA World Cup with the 'Jogo Bonito' sampler, a limited 1,000-unit run featuring 11 high-rated premium cigars.
Record Seizures: Why the Global Crackdown on Illicit Tobacco Matters to Shoppers
Enforcement agencies report record hauls of illegal tobacco in 2026. Learn why the rise in black market seizures impacts the legal retail landscape.
New Cigar Taxes Take Effect July 1: Ohio Nudges Up, California Ticks Down
Effective July 1, 2026, Ohio and California implemented annual cigar tax adjustments, reflecting the complex patchwork of state-level tobacco regulations.
Drew Estate’s Undercrown Goes Dominican: El Tigre Dominicano Reaches Retailers
Drew Estate expands its Undercrown line with El Tigre Dominicano, a filler-forward Dominican blend featuring Ecuadorian Sumatra wrappers and H99 binders.
Big Tobacco's Smokeless Turn: British American Tobacco to Cut 9,000 Jobs
British American Tobacco announces a massive restructuring, cutting 9,000 jobs to pivot toward smokeless products like Velo and Vuse as cigarette volumes declin
FDA Clears ZYN to Advertise Lower Risk Than Cigarettes in Historic First
The FDA has authorized 20 ZYN nicotine pouch products to be marketed as a lower-risk alternative to cigarettes, marking a first for the oral nicotine category.
Premium Cigar Market Splits: Davidoff Posts Sales Gains as U.S. Handmade Imports Cool
Oettinger Davidoff reports 2.5% growth despite a softening U.S. market, signaling a shift toward brand loyalty and value-driven purchasing in 2026.
Al Fakher Parent Company Goes Public: AIR Global Debuts on Nasdaq with $1.75B Valuation
AIR Global, the parent of hookah giant Al Fakher, has listed on the Nasdaq. The $1.75 billion deal signals a major shift for the flavored shisha market.
Massachusetts Retailers Sue Over State's Aggressive Vape and Nicotine Pouch Crackdown
Massachusetts retailers have filed a federal lawsuit against state health officials, alleging illegal enforcement actions against vapes and nicotine pouches.
A Busy Summer for Premium Cigars: New 2026 Releases Hit Shops
From the Montecristo Espada Conquistador to Rocky Patel’s 30th Anniversary, explore the major premium cigar releases and limited editions arriving this summer.
InterTabac 2026 Preview: Global Trade Fair Signals Rapid Industry Shifts
As InterTabac 2026 prepares to host 800 exhibitors in Dortmund, the world's largest tobacco trade fair highlights the balance between innovation and tradition.
The Nicotine Pouch Aisle Gets Crowded: Celebrity-Backed Challengers Line Up Against ZYN
As ZYN secures a landmark FDA win, celebrity-backed startups like Sesh and high-profile investors are flooding the nicotine pouch market with $40 million in fun
America's 250th Sparks a Wave of Commemorative Cigar Releases This Summer
Cigar makers celebrate the U.S. Semiquincentennial and the World Cup with limited-edition releases, including J.C. Newman’s official America250 collection.
Cigar Taxes Drop in Kentucky and California: What the July 1 Cuts Mean for Smokers
In a rare move, Kentucky and California have lowered excise taxes on cigars. Kentucky's rate slashed to 6%, making it one of the most tax-friendly states for ci
The Nicotine Pouch Race: ZYN’s FDA Win and the Rise of New Challengers
The FDA has authorized ZYN for modified risk marketing as venture-backed startups like Sesh enter the rapidly growing U.S. nicotine pouch market.
Drew Estate CEO Glenn Wolfson, Steward of Acid and Liga Privada, Dies at 70
Glenn Wolfson, who led Drew Estate through a decade of growth and its 30th anniversary, has passed away at age 70 following a battle with pancreatic cancer.
FDA's Proposed Registration Rule Draws Pushback From Premium Cigar Association
The PCA warns that a new FDA proposal for factory inspections and product registration could drive up costs for pipe tobacco and machine-made cigars.
Premium Cigar Imports Slip 5 Percent as U.S. Handmade Market Cools
U.S. premium cigar imports fell 5% through April 2026. While Nicaragua remains the top source, Honduras saw a 14% gain amid a broader market normalization.
FDA Authorizes ZYN as First Nicotine Pouch with Reduced-Risk Marketing Status
The FDA has issued landmark orders allowing ZYN to be marketed as a lower-risk alternative to cigarettes for adult smokers, a first for the pouch category.
Orange County, Florida Moves to Keep New Tobacco and Vape Shops Away From Schools
Orange County commissioners have advanced a proposal to bar new tobacco and vape shops from opening within 1,000 feet of schools or existing tobacco retailers.
Zig-Zag Owner Turning Point Brands Reports 133% Surge in Nicotine Pouch Sales
Turning Point Brands reports a massive 133% revenue jump in its 'Modern Oral' segment, as nicotine pouches now account for 42% of the company's net sales.
June 2026 (18)
Tobacco Giant BAT to Cut 9,000 Jobs in Strategic Pivot to Smoke-Free Products
British American Tobacco announces a sweeping global restructuring, cutting nearly 20% of its workforce to fund a shift from cigarettes to nicotine pouches.
Dutch Masters Undergoes First Major Brand Overhaul in a Century
Dutch Masters modernizes its iconic packaging and expands its cigarillo lineup with new Fusion variants while preserving its historic Rembrandt logo.
White Owl Expands Limited-Edition Lineup with Summer 'Red, White & Berry' Release
White Owl continues its rapid flavor rotation for 2026, introducing seasonal limited-edition cigarillos including Red, White & Berry and Watermelon Limeade.
Hookah Giant Al Fakher Enters Nicotine Pouch Market With Shisha-Inspired Flavors
Al Fakher debuts a new nicotine pouch line featuring flavors like Frosty Apple, bridging the gap between traditional hookah culture and modern oral nicotine.
Swisher Bets $135 Million on Jacksonville Expansion for Oral Nicotine and Cigars
Swisher, the parent company of Swisher Sweets and Drew Estate, is investing $135 million to expand manufacturing and create 240 jobs in Florida.
Backwoods Leans Into Limited Editions for 2026: 'City Packs' and a Record-Label Collab
Backwoods expands its 2026 lineup with geographically themed City Packs and a high-profile collaboration with an Atlanta-based record label.
Captain Black: America's Best-Selling Aromatic Pipe Tobacco Explained for 2026
Seven decades after its debut, Captain Black remains the top-selling aromatic pipe tobacco. Explore the classic lineup and the new Platinum blend for 2026.
Cones and Hemp Wraps Reshape the Rolling Aisle as Zig-Zag Adapts to New Trends
Zig-Zag parent company reports a shift in consumer demand as pre-rolled cones and hemp wraps outpace traditional rolling paper booklets in the 2026 market.
Djarum Clove Cigars in 2026: The Kretek That Outlived a Cigarette Ban
From the 2009 federal flavor ban to 2026 state-level restrictions, explore how Djarum clove cigars navigate the complex landscape of U.S. tobacco regulations.
The ZYN Shortage Is Officially Over: Pouch Maker Dials Back Production as Supply Catches Up
After two years of the 'Zynpocalypse,' Philip Morris International scales back production schedules as supply finally exceeds consumer demand.
FDA Proposes New Registration Rules for Foreign Tobacco Factories and Imported Products
A new FDA proposal seeks to require foreign tobacco manufacturers to register facilities and list products, potentially impacting imported cigars, vapes, and po
ACID by Drew Estate Turns 20: The Infused Cigar That Defined a Category Marks a Milestone
Drew Estate celebrates 20 years of ACID cigars with the commemorative ACID 20 and ACID 20 Connecticut blends, honoring the brand that made botanical infusion ma
Six Cigar Dynasties Raise $228,000 for Premium Cigar Advocacy at 'Titans of Tobacco'
Six rival cigarmaking families united in Connecticut to raise $228,350 for Cigar Rights of America, funding legal battles over FDA regulations and tariffs.
Cigar Tariffs in Limbo: How 2026's Court Rulings Could Reshape Premium Cigar Prices
Federal court rulings have challenged tariffs on imported cigars from Nicaragua and the Dominican Republic, but a pending appeal keeps price relief uncertain.
State Tobacco Laws in 2026: New Taxes, Flavor Rules, and What Online Shoppers Should Know
From Washington's 95% tax to California's unflavored list, explore how new 2026 state regulations are changing tobacco and nicotine availability and pricing.
ZYN Ultra Arrives in the U.S.: What's New About Philip Morris's Latest Nicotine Pouch
Philip Morris International launches ZYN Ultra, featuring a moist slim format, 20-pouch cans, and higher nicotine strengths to compete in the U.S. market.
Federal Court Reaffirms Premium Cigars Are Exempt From FDA Regulation
A federal judge has issued a final order reaffirming that handmade premium cigars are exempt from FDA oversight, providing clarity for the tobacco industry.
FDA 2025 Youth Tobacco Survey: Overall Use Declines as Regulators Focus on Flavors and Pouches
The FDA's 2025 National Youth Tobacco Survey shows a continued decline in youth tobacco use, though flavored products and nicotine pouches remain under scrutiny