The question of whether Cuban cigars are illegal in the United States is a complicated one, with a long and complicated history.
Since the Cuban Revolution of 1959, the U.S. government has placed a trade embargo on goods and services imported from Cuba. This includes Cuban cigars, which have been prohibited in the U.S. since 1962. Despite this, some Cuban cigars have been able to make their way into the U.S., usually through “gray market” importers.
In 2014, the Obama administration announced a significant change in U.S. policy towards Cuba, including an easing of restrictions on trade, travel, and financial transactions. In 2016, the U.S. government officially changed its stance on Cuban cigars, allowing for their importation into the U.S. for the first time since 1962.
However, the new policy came with certain restrictions. Cuban cigars could only be brought into the U.S. for personal consumption, and travelers can only bring in a limited number of cigars. Furthermore, any Cuban cigars that are brought into the U.S. had to be paid for in advance, and could be resold.
Unfortunately, Cuban cigars are once again illegal in the United States. President Donald Trump reinstated the previous ban against Cuba and now no Cuban goods can be brought into the United States. The US Customs and Border Protection website explains the current regulations quite simply.
“Effective September 24, 2020, authorized travelers may no longer return to the United States with alcohol and/or tobacco products acquired in Cuba as accompanied baggage for personal use.
Persons authorized to travel to Cuba may purchase alcohol and tobacco products while in Cuba for personal consumption in Cuba.
Persons subject to United States jurisdiction may purchase or acquire Cuban-origin merchandise, including alcohol and tobacco products, while in a third country for personal consumption outside the United States.”
While President Joe Biden promised a review of US policy towards Cuba, that has not happened yet. Fingers crossed.
