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DENPASAR — Indonesia is strengthening its presence in the global tobacco industry by promoting locally produced cigars through the Indonesia Cigar Festival (ICF). The initiative builds on Indonesia’s strong position in the international tobacco trade and seeks to connect tobacco farmers, cigar producers, and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with wider export opportunities. The country’s participation at Intertabak Germany, one of the world’s leading tobacco exhibitions, has further highlighted the potential of Indonesian tobacco and cigar products in international markets.Senator and Chairman of the Bali Promotion Board, Arya Wedakarna, stressed the importance of collaboration among farmers, businesses, MSMEs, and the government to strengthen the domestic cigar industry. He pointed to Bali’s strong tourism market, which attracted around 16 million visitors last year, including approximately 7 million international and 9 million domestic tourists. According to Wedakarna, Indonesian cigars are capable of competing with imported products, including those from Cuba and the United States, provided locally grown tobacco is developed and presented with professional packaging and branding. He also expressed support for the ICF as a platform for education, promotion, and business development for local cigar producers.The ICF is also targeting international expansion, with Bali envisioned as a potential hub for Asia’s cigar industry. Organizers are exploring export and business cooperation with several countries, including Timor-Leste, Russia, China, and India, with further discussions expected during an ASEAN delegates’ meeting in Serangan on October 3. Six Bali-based cigar brands have also participated in Intertabak Germany alongside PTPN from Sumatra. Through the festival, organizers hope to bring together the entire cigar ecosystem—from farmers and producers to MSMEs and government institutions—to strengthen Indonesia’s competitiveness and accelerate the global expansion of its locally made cigars.
