DOLLY PARTON RETURNS TO PUBLIC EYE TO CELEBRATE OPENING DAY AT DOLLYWOOD . (PHOTO).
Cuba cancels annual cigar festival amid worsening energy crisis from U.S oil blockade
Cuba has suspended its annual cigar festival in Havana, originally scheduled for late February, citing a worsening economic crisis and energy shortages. The event, organized by Habanos S.A., was postponed “to preserve the highest standards of quality, excellence and experience” and a new date has yet to be announced. The festival typically draws over 1,000 visitors from around 80 countries, offering cigar auctions and tours of tobacco plantations.
The cancellation comes amid a severe fuel shortage caused by a U.S. oil blockade, which has cut Cuba off from Venezuelan oil supplies. The government has implemented rationing to protect essential services, while the United Nations has warned of a potential humanitarian crisis if oil needs remain unmet. Cuban cigars, a key export generating foreign currency, remain highly prized worldwide despite being banned in the U.S. Habanos S.A. reported record sales of $827 million in 2024, a 16% increase from the previous year, underscoring the economic importance of the industry even as the festival is put on hold.
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