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Tag: import

  • U.S. Tops List for Importing Dominican Cigars

    U.S. Tops List for Importing Dominican Cigars

    Iván Hernández Guzmán, the director of the Tobacco Institute of the Dominican Republic, recently offered a breakdown of the nation’s cigar export market, which he said this year will top $1.3 billion with products going to 148 countries.

    Hernández Guzmán said the United States is by far the biggest importer of Dominican cigars, accounting for 74.3% of the market at $906 million. Purchasing power, culture, and relatively low tariffs on premium cigars make the U.S. an attractive market, he said.

    The next highest importers are China $74 million (5.53%) and Germany $60 million (4.45%), followed by Belgium $26 million (1.93%), Nicaragua $22 million (1.63%), Puerto Rico $18 million (1.31%), and Spain $15 million (1.21%).

     “The tobacco of the Dominican Republic is considered a country brand and is recognized for its premium cigars that are highly appreciated nationally and internationally,” Hernández Guzmán said. “So from the government and the private sector, we are working for its greater promotion, expansion, and support.”

  • Philippines Looks to Tighten Vape Import Laws 

    Philippines Looks to Tighten Vape Import Laws 

    Potential new requirements have been drafted in an administrative order to tighten measures against the illegal trade of vape products, promote consumer safety, and streamline import procedures in the Philippines. Today (March 10), the Department of Trade and Industry asked the public and stakeholders to help provide insights for its amended documentary requirements in the issuance of a Statement of Confirmation (SOC) for product importers. The SOC is a mandatory certification that verifies the legitimacy and compliance of imported vape products and tobacco items.

    In the proposed order, importers would need to submit an expanded set of documents consisting of a packing list, commercial invoice, bill of lading/airway bill, production batch details, and a valid Philippine Standard License. Additional compliance requirements include a P150,000 ($2,550) surety bond, a valid certificate of registration from the Bureau of Customs, proof of billing and ownership, or lease of warehouse space, and an excise tax return with a Bureau of Internal Revenue stamp.