How to Import Nicaraguan Cigars

Importing Nicaraguan cigars is a right of all Americans. Aside from the political embargo initiated by the United States against Nicaragua from May 1985 through March 1990, which prohibits imports and exports between nations, today buying Nicaraguan tobacco products means following all stated laws of international trade. Rules and guidelines for tobacco import are outlined in the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule. Tax enforcement is carried out by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau.

Instructions

• 1

  Purchase cigars directly through the Nicaraguan business provider or over the Internet. U.S. Federal law allows for purchase of tobacco products from Web sites. Remember, all tobacco sales, whether directly through the distributor or through an online transaction, are subjected to necessary sales taxes.

• 2

  Comply with importation limits on tobacco products. The purchase of Nicaraguan cigars is limited to 100 per individual import. Consult with the U.S. International Trade Commission for updates or changes on importation limits.

• 3

  Pay all necessary taxes. Importing cigars requires payment of an import duty, state sales tax and any foreign export taxes. Import duties are taxes levied by the U.S. Customs Department on items received through shipping ports. The cost of an import duty is determined as a percentage of the overall worth of the imported items. Import duties and taxes will vary depending on the type and quantity of your purchase.