China has become the world's top importer of Cuban cigars, with more than 300 million smokers contributing to its important growth potential in the industry. This trend took off in the 1990s when Wang Zheng, the son of Mao's official interpreter, introduced Chinese buyers to Cuban puros through his company, Ziqui. Since then, the cigar market in China has grown significantly, with smoking cigars becoming a symbol of taste, purchasing power, and enjoyment of life. It's no longer an unattainable luxury hobby, but a popular pastime among the country's elite.
The Chinese cigar market has attracted the attention of several global cigar brands, including La Casa Del Habano, which has opened a branch in Beijing, offering a wide range of Cuban cigars to Chinese consumers. The popularity of Cuban cigars in China has also led to an increase in counterfeit products, with many fake Cuban cigars being sold in the country. To combat this issue, the Chinese government has taken steps to regulate the cigar market and ensure that only authentic Cuban cigars are sold.
In conclusion, China's love affair with Cuban cigars has grown over the years, with the country becoming the top importer of these products globally. With the increasing popularity of cigars among the Chinese elite, the industry is expected to continue to grow, providing significant growth potential for cigar brands and manufacturers worldwide.