TobaccoReporter logo

Tag: Joshua Habursky

  • PCA Concerned Over FDA’s Proposed Tobacco Rules

    PCA Concerned Over FDA’s Proposed Tobacco Rules

    The Premium Cigar Association (PCA) said it will submit comments opposing portions of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s proposed rule on tobacco product establishment registration and product listing, arguing the measure could impose significant compliance costs on manufacturers and retailers. The association noted that premium cigar manufacturers remain exempt from the proposal as a result of successful litigation overturning the FDA’s Deeming Rule for premium cigars, but warned that many other products sold by its 3,500 retail members—including pipe tobacco and non-premium cigars—would be subject to new registration, recordkeeping, and inspection requirements.

    PCA CEO Joshua Habursky said the organization is concerned the proposal could lead to additional regulation and higher costs throughout the supply chain, particularly for small businesses. The association said it intends to oppose provisions it considers unnecessary and argues that increased compliance costs for manufacturers would ultimately be passed on to retailers and consumers through higher prices and reduced product choice.

  • PCA and Partners With Honduran Cigar Festival

    PCA and Partners With Honduran Cigar Festival

    The Premium Cigar Association (PCA) announced a partnership with Honduras’ Festival del Puro y el Café, an annual event in Danlí, El Paraíso, a key hub for Honduran tobacco production. The agreement aims to expand international collaboration, increase visibility for PCA members and festival stakeholders, and strengthen engagement between retailers, manufacturers, and enthusiasts. The festival, launched in 2021, celebrates Honduras’ premium cigar and specialty coffee industries and has quickly grown into a major industry event.

    Under the partnership, PCA will support festival branding and member awareness, while festival organizers will provide registration opportunities for PCA staff. PCA CEO Joshua Habursky said the agreement expands the association’s international partnerships following similar collaborations in Nicaragua and the Dominican Republic, reflecting Honduras’ growing influence in the global premium cigar sector.

  • PCA Extends CEO Habursky Through 2031

    PCA Extends CEO Habursky Through 2031

    The Premium Cigar Association (PCA) extended the contract of executive director Joshua Habursky for five years, securing his governance through 2031. Habursky, who also serves as CEO, will continue overseeing the trade association’s operations and assets, including its Washington, D.C., office.

    Board president Todd Naifeh praised Habursky’s leadership, citing record membership and revenue growth, while vice president Paul Groh highlighted his forward-looking approach, including early planning for the PCA’s centennial in 2033. Since joining in 2019, Habursky has overseen initiatives such as the PCA Alliance program, an FIU educational partnership, and the launch of the World Cigar Show.

    At its fall meeting in Washington today (September 10), the Board also promoted Antoine Reid to senior director of marketing and communications and announced plans to hire an additional communications manager in early 2026.

  • Louisiana Caps Cigar Taxes at 50 Cents Each

    Louisiana Caps Cigar Taxes at 50 Cents Each

    Louisiana joined Arkansas and North Carolina in implementing a cigar tax cap, putting a 50-cent ceiling on each cigar. Passed by the state legislature and signed into law by Governor Jeff Landry, the measure will take effect January 1, 2026.

    Sponsored by Rep. Marcus Bryant, the law applies to cigars wholesale priced at $2.50 or more, which includes virtually all premium handmade cigars. Those under that threshold will continue to be taxed at 20% of the wholesale price.

    The Premium Cigar Association (PCA) praised the legislation, calling it a victory for small businesses and cigar consumers. PCA, which held its annual trade show in New Orleans in 2025 and returns for 2026, provided testimony and advocacy support alongside local Louisiana tobacconists and distributors.

    “This positive development in Louisiana is yet another indicator of how the state is supporting its small business community and their patrons,” said PCA executive director Joshua Habursky. “The economic impact of the New Orleans-based trade show was shared with the legislature, as was the positive impact of cigar tax caps throughout the nation. We appreciate the support of the legislature and Governor Landry with this positive step.”