The Premium Cigar Association (PCA) will play a leading role in The Cigar Conference 2025, the educational centerpiece of the World Cigar Show Dubai, taking place Tuesday, November 11, 2025. With the theme “Tradition Reimagined: The Global Future of Premium Cigars,” the conference will unite producers, diplomats, policymakers, and cultural figures for a day of high-level dialogue on the future of the premium cigar industry.
“This gathering in Dubai reflects the enduring truth that cigars are more than a product, they are a language of culture, connection, and heritage. Through this dialogue, we honor our past while shaping a shared global future,” commented Ricardo Carioni, PCA’s Director of International Affairs & Education.
Joshua Habursky, CEO of the Premium Cigar Association, will open the forum with remarks setting the tone for a day dedicated to collaboration and innovation. The program will feature five dynamic panels exploring global regulation, sustainability, storytelling, and emerging markets — all aimed at safeguarding the cultural heritage and economic vitality of premium cigars.
Highlights include:
- Global Tobacco Geopolitics: A discussion led by PCA’s Ricardo Carioni on the intersection of trade, diplomacy, and regulation, featuring experts from CLE Cigars, and H New Media Law.
- Cigar Culture 3.0: Industry innovators explore how technology and sustainability are transforming production, branding, and consumer engagement.
- Heritage vs. Hype: Hosted by Light ‘Em Up, this pre-recorded panel dissects the ethics of storytelling in the digital era and the balance between authenticity and aspiration.
- Roots & Legacy: Moderated by PCA Board Member Todd Naifeh, this session honors the craftsmanship and family heritage behind cigar making, with voices from Plasencia, J.C. Newman, and Constella Group.
- Beyond Borders: Led by PCA Board Member Scott Regina, this closing discussion will focus on exciting markets across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, examining how cigars continue to serve as symbols of diplomacy and cultural identity.
“The Cigar Conference in Dubai brings the global community together to not only celebrate our shared traditions but to confront the regulatory, cultural, and economic realities that will define the next era of premium cigars,” said Habursky. “PCA is proud to be part of this forward-looking dialogue.”
“Just as a fine cigar blend combines wrapper, binder, and filler in harmony, the World Cigar Show unites the PCA’s global platform, Quartz’s event expertise, and The Leaf Master’s regional passion,” said Ra’ed W. Saqfelhait, co-founder and managing partner at The Leaf Master Tobacco Trading, LLC. “Together, we’re crafting a world-class experience for the cigar community across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.”
The Cigar Conference 2025 reaffirms PCA’s commitment to fostering international collaboration and amplifying the voice of the premium cigar industry on the world stage. For more information or to register for the World Cigar Show, visit https://wtprocessandmachinery.com/world-cigar-show.