Newman went on to explain how the premium cigar industry is mostly comprised of what many would consider small businesses and how its premium cigars are produced and sold to 3,000 specialty retailers across the country.
“These are mom-and-pop, small family businesses with just a handful of employees. Our boutique premium cigar industry simply cannot absorb these massive regulatory costs.”
Borysiewicz explained the threat that regulations posed for his business, with the burden of regulations threatening the vitality of businesses like his. He went on to explain how the choice of suppliers gives retailers an advantage though the regulations could force some of those suppliers out of business or consolidation, leading to fewer options for both retailers and consumers. Borysiewicz also touched on the subject of marketing and premium cigars, citing a New England Journal of Medicine study from 2017 that was funded by the FDA that revealed that few children had ever smoked a premium cigar.
Dr. Brad Rodu of University of Louisville and Tobacco Harm Reduction, was also in attendance and spoke on the different risks associated with smoking cigarettes as opposed to cigars and other smokeless tobacco products. Rodu said that smoking patterns were different and that moderate smoking of premium cigars had little impact on someone’s overall health.
To read Eric Newman’s testimony in full, click here. You can also watch the hearing in its entirety on Facebook by clicking here.
 held a hearing on premium cigars in Ybor City, Florida to discuss FDA regulation impact on small businesses.){kind=link}