AITS IGNITE & ITPAC

As a specialist tobacconist and proud advocate for premium cigars, Cigars Unlimited is closely monitoring the latest developments in the UK’s regulatory landscape. A significant moment in this ongoing discussion took place at the AITS IGNITE event on May 17, 2025, where Tatiana Camacho, Secretary-General of ITPAC, delivered a compelling presentation during one of the key seminars. Her insights laid bare the looming regulatory challenges and their potential impact on our industry.

The Tobacco and Vapes Bill: A Sweeping Shift

The Tobacco and Vapes Bill, currently in the Committee Stage in the House of Lords, includes a controversial proposal known as the Smoke-Free Generation Ban, which would prohibit tobacco sales to anyone born on or after January 1, 2009. If implemented by the government’s target of January 1, 2027, this would be the most restrictive tobacco legislation in UK history.

While the aim of reducing smoking prevalence is understandable, the government has failed to acknowledge the distinct market for Other Tobacco Products (OTPs) such as handmade cigars. This one-size-fits-all approach threatens to devastate businesses that cater to adult clientele seeking quality over quantity.

Why Handmade Cigars Are Different

Premium cigars are not mass-market commodities. Each product is crafted with care and sold in low volume to discerning adults. They are not part of the youth smoking problem the government seeks to solve. Yet, under this legislation, cigars are treated no differently than cigarettes or vapes. This raises serious concerns over the future of specialist tobacconists, who could face:

• A significant decrease in customer base
• Financial hardship due to lost revenue
• Operational disruptions from licensing requirements and packaging standardisation
• Even potential business closure

Use Your Voice: Advocacy That Matters

Cigars Unlimited supports the AITS “Use Your Voice” campaign, which pushes back against poorly targeted regulations. This initiative highlights how government policy has shut out niche retailers from the consultation process due to an overly strict interpretation of international guidelines.

The campaign’s goals are to:

• Promote evidence-based policymaking
• Raise awareness about the distinct nature of OTPs
• Encourage consumer and industry involvement

We urge our customers and peers to make their voices heard. The tools are already available—MP letter templates, campaign assets, and contact information for legislators.

Why This Matters Now

The government is increasingly making decisions through delegated powers, allowing new rules to be introduced with minimal parliamentary scrutiny. Clauses in the bill even allow for immediate introduction of standardised packaging, retailer licensing, and smoke-free zones that could impact outdoor cigar sampling and events.

For specialist retailers, this level of control is not only disproportionate but could be devastating to business.

Call to Action

At Cigars Unlimited, we believe in the right to enjoy premium cigars responsibly. We’re not just defending a product—we’re defending a tradition, a culture, and an industry that employs thousands across the UK.

We encourage you to:
✅ Stay informed
✅ Support advocacy efforts like AITS
✅ Engage with your MP
✅ Share your voice on social media

Your favourite cigar shop is under threat. Let’s fight to keep the tradition alive.