Can i mail order cuban cigars to usa

The allure of Cuban cigars! While it's technically possible to mail order Cuban cigars to the USA, there are some important considerations and restrictions to be aware of.

Background: The United States has a long-standing trade embargo with Cuba, which prohibits the importation of Cuban goods, including cigars, into the country. However, in 2014, the Obama administration relaxed some restrictions, allowing for the sale of Cuban cigars to travelers returning to the USA.

Current regulations: As of 2020, the Trump administration tightened the rules again, making it more difficult for individuals to bring Cuban cigars into the USA. The current regulations state that:

  1. Travelers can bring back up to $100 worth of Cuban cigars per person, per trip, as part of their personal exemption. This means you can bring back a limited quantity of cigars, but only if you're traveling to Cuba and declaring them at customs.
  2. Cuban cigars can only be brought back by individuals, not businesses. This means you can't buy Cuban cigars in bulk or for resale purposes.
  3. Cuban cigars must be declared at customs. Failure to declare Cuban cigars can result in fines, penalties, or even confiscation of the cigars.

Mail order restrictions: While it's technically possible to mail order Cuban cigars to the USA, there are several issues to consider:

  1. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations: CBP has strict regulations regarding the importation of Cuban goods, including cigars. If you try to mail order Cuban cigars, they may be seized or destroyed by CBP.
  2. Federal laws: The US Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) enforces the trade embargo with Cuba. Mailing Cuban cigars to the USA could violate OFAC regulations and result in fines or penalties.
  3. State laws: Some states, like Florida, have laws prohibiting the sale or possession of Cuban cigars.

Alternatives: If you're interested in purchasing Cuban cigars, consider the following alternatives:

  1. Travel to Cuba: If you're planning a trip to Cuba, you can purchase cigars in person and bring them back within the allowed limits.
  2. Buy from authorized retailers: Look for authorized retailers in the USA that sell Cuban cigars, such as cigar shops or online retailers that have obtained the necessary licenses from the US government.
  3. Consider alternative cigar brands: There are many excellent cigar brands available in the USA that are not Cuban, but still offer high-quality products.

In summary, while it's technically possible to mail order Cuban cigars to the USA, it's important to understand the regulations and restrictions involved. It's recommended to explore alternative options, such as traveling to Cuba or purchasing from authorized retailers in the USA.