The Dominican Cigar Will Have a Geographical Indication

With the objective of elevating the standards of excellence, protecting tradition, and guaranteeing the authenticity of the country’s flagship product, the inauguration of the Regulatory Council for the “Dominican Cigar” Geographical Indication (GI) has been formalized.

This body, created under the protection of Law 20-00 on Industrial Property and Law 34-18 of INTABACO, assumes the strategic responsibility of defending, promoting, and controlling the quality of cigars that hold this distinction. Its constitution represents a historic step to shield the international prestige of the Dominican cigar, ensuring that every unit complies with the processes, production zones, and organoleptic characteristics that define its typicity.

A Commitment to Excellence

The importance of this Regulatory Council lies in its function as a guarantor of consumer confidence. Through the application of Dominican Standards (NORDOM 481 and 482) and the rigorous monitoring of the entire process—from planting and harvesting to manufacturing and packaging—the Council ensures that the end consumer receives a top-quality, authentically Dominican product.

“The implementation of this Geographical Indication not only protects our cultural and agricultural heritage, but also establishes a necessary technical framework for competitiveness in global markets,” the regulation’s statutes state.

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Structure and Governance

The Regulatory Council is comprised of a multi-sector representation that guarantees balanced and transparent management: Main directors: Representatives of INTABACO (which presides), the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and MSMEs, and PROCIGAR. Strategic allies: Participation of PRODOMINICANA and representatives from the producing, manufacturing, and exporting sectors. Technical support: INDOCAL and ONAPI act as conformity assessment and legal support entities, ensuring the technical integrity of the certifications.

Impact on the Sector

With the entry into force of this regulation, the Dominican tobacco sector aligns itself with international best practices for the protection of origin. The Regulatory Council will not only oversee compliance with the standards but will also drive the promotion of the country brand, support commercialization, and offer constant training to registered operators. The creation of this organism is a testament to the joint effort between the State and the private sector to preserve the legacy of the Dominican cigar, protecting it against the misuse of names and terms that could cause confusion in the market.

For more information about registries and the benefits of this certification, interested parties can contact the INTABACO offices.