The premium cigar industry secured another victory in its ongoing battle with the FDA. Today, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia rejected the FDA’s appeal to overturn a 2023 ruling by Judge Amit P. Mehta, which had struck down strict regulations on premium cigars.
This decision prevents the FDA from imposing warning labels and other restrictive measures, allowing cigar makers to focus on their craft rather than regulatory battles. The court highlighted flaws in the FDA’s reasoning, citing studies showing minimal health risks from premium cigars compared to other tobacco products.
“We agree with Judge Mehta that the FDA’s final rule was arbitrary and capricious,” wrote Judge Randolph, calling the agency’s justification “factually incorrect.” However, the court did note the need for a clearer definition of premium cigars.
Industry leaders welcomed the ruling. “This is a huge win for the premium cigar industry,” said Javier Estades Saez of Tabacalera USA. Drew Newman of J.C. Newman Cigar Co. called it “a monumental decision,” ensuring premium cigars remain handcrafted for generations.
Today’s ruling reinforces a key point: premium cigars are distinct from cigarettes and should not be subject to the same regulations.
