Our Story
130 Years of Leadership in the Cigar Industry
For more than a century, the Cigar Association of America has united and supported its members while advancing the cigar industry nationwide. What began as a proud American tradition has grown into a vital sector contributing billions to the U.S. economy and sustaining hundreds of thousands of quality jobs.
Our History
Tracing the Legacy of the Cigar Association of America
A Legacy of Leadership
CAA continues its proud heritage as the leading national voice of the cigar industry. With a strong presence in Washington, D.C., and active engagement nationwide, we protect, promote, and strengthen the cigar industry at every level of government.
Relocation to Washington, D.C.
Recognizing the growing importance of government relations, CAA moved its headquarters from New York City to Washington, D.C., positioning the association at the center of national policymaking.
Renamed the Cigar Association of America, Inc.
Reflecting broader membership and a national scope, the organization became the Cigar Association of America, Inc. (CAA).
Incorporation in New York City
Formally established as the Cigar Manufacturers Association of America, the organization set standards for manufacturing, advanced industry welfare, and monitored legislation affecting members.
Formation of the Cigar Manufacturers’ Association of New York
Founded to unite cigar manufacturers for mutual benefit and growth, the association promoted economic progress and industry integrity. It later aligned with the Cigar Institute of America and the Cigar Research Council, laying the foundation for today’s Cigar Association of America.
Helping Our Members Navigate Challenging Times
These are demanding days for the cigar industry, but CAA continues to stand beside our members and their customers. We advocate around the clock in Washington, D.C., and in every state to defend fair regulation and protect your right to enjoy premium cigars.
CAA continues its proud heritage of leadership with a strong presence in Washington, D.C., and active engagement at state and local levels across the nation.
Making a Difference
Behind the Tradition: The Story and Spirit of the CAA Annual Meeting
Each year, when members of the Cigar Association of America (CAA) and their guests gather…
What Ash Tells You About Your Cigar
The ash can tell you a lot about the quality of your cigar. It gives…
Cigar Smoking In The Winter: Tips For Battling The Law-And The Elements
There’s nothing better than lighting up your favorite toro on a snowy winter evening. But…
Republican Congressman Tom Cole & Democrat Congressman Sanford Bishop Introduce FDA Deeming Authority Clarification Act
Congressmen Tom Cole (R-OK) and Sanford Bishop (D-GA) filed the “FDA Deeming Authority Clarification Act…
We Are the Industry
Every Sector: Seed to Shelf to Sales
The Cigar Association of America (CAA) represents the full spectrum of the cigar industry from seed to shelf.
Our members include manufacturers, importers, distributors, online retailers, tobacco growers, packaging suppliers, and supporting service partners.
If you are in the cigar business, you are part of a unique, storied industry, and CAA is here to amplify your voice and protect what you have built.
CAA Team
Our experienced advocates act swiftly on state and federal issues impacting the cigar industry.
