Javier Estades Re-elected Cigar Association of America Chairman

Javier Estades, the ceo of Tabacalera USA, has been re-elected as the chairman of the Cigar Association of America (CAA) for a one-year term.

Estades was first elected chairman of the CAA in November 2015, leading the cigar association trade association, which represents the full range of the cigar industry, from farm to factory. Its members include manufacturers, importers, distributors, suppliers, growers and retailers. The organization supports its members by helping them successfully navigate through a challenging business environment, utilizing a broad network of advocates, who engage officials at the federal, state and local levels of government.

Estades earned extensions to his service in 2018 and 2019, and continued to serve in the role through 2020, when he was succeeded by John Miller, the president of Swisher International. In September 2021, Estades was re-elected to the position following news that Miller was no longer Swisher’s ceo and president.

“Chairman Estades has been a leader in advancing public policy for the cigar industry at the federal, state and local levels,” said David Ozgo, president of the CAA, in a press release. “He helped guide us to significant victories on a number of critical issues, which his peers recognized by reelecting him for another term as chairman. I personally appreciate his partnership, guidance, and support.”

In a press release, Estades said that he was not only proud of all the big wins that the organization has achieved for the cigar industry, but also acknlowedged that there is more to be done.

“We still have challenges ahead, but CAA is ready to continue fighting against improper, overreaching efforts by FDA and state and local governments,” said Estades, who expressed his excitement in continuing to serve as chairman.

In his role as the ceo of Tabacalera USA, Estades oversees a number of premium cigar entities, including Altadis U.S.A., which makes and distributes the Montecristo, Romeo y Julieta and H. Upmann brands among a host of others. He is also responsible for JR Cigar, one of the largest online retailers for premium cigars, cigar accessories, humidors, etc. and Casa de Montecristo, a collection of cigar stores, cigar bars and lounges located throughout the United States.

“Cigars are more than a great American tradition — they are a powerful contributor to the American economy, responsible for billions of dollars in annual revenue and thousands of quality jobs,” Ozgo added in his statement.

The CAA was originally established in New York City in 1937 as the Cigar Manufacturers of America, though its roots trace back to previous organizations dating back to 1900. The CAA is now based in Washington, D.C.