Expert: Bill Finck Jr. - 1/24/2008

Question
QUESTION: Hi Bill, I have friends that are going to Jamaica and I am hoping that they can bring me back some cigars . I have looked on the internet to try to find some info on where to buy them while there. Also I can't find what kind of cigars they have there or are they a country that has a lot to do with cigars? Any information you have, places to buy or brands avaliable would be much appreciated. Thanks for your time.  Grant

ANSWER: Grant,
Jamaica used to grow cigar tobacco and had several factories, but there are no major cigar factories there anymore and they grow very little if any cigar tobacco there. According to the Cigar Association of America, total imports from Jamaica to the U.S. thru October 2007 are 5,000 cigars. Therefore, the cigars you find there probably won't be any different than what is available here.
Bill

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Would they have cigars imported there, of some sort whether it be Dominican or Cuban or whatever, they would still be quiet a bit cheaper than what I would pay for them here in Alberta Canada would they not? Also if you could tell me what brands they would have in Jamaics? Again Bill, thank you for your time.    Grant

Answer
Grant,
I'm sure they have cigars from all over the world available, however I don't know anything about their pricing structure. I would assume you'd be paying "tourist" prices which are typically pretty high, but depending on the tax rates in Canada (which I am not familiar with) they may still be cheaper. I guess your best option is to give your friend a list of what you want and what you are willing to pay for them and see what he finds when he gets there. Wish I could be of more help.
Bill