The Boutique Cigar Association (BCA), founded in 2016 by Dr. Gaby Kafie in response to FDA regulations, has announced it will dissolve as an independent trade group and officially align with the Cigar Association of America (CAA), Premium Cigar Association (PCA), and Cigar Rights of America (CRA).
The BCA represented cigar makers producing fewer than 500,000 cigars annually and engaged in advocacy efforts at all levels of government. After reviewing the current regulatory landscape—particularly following the CAA’s recent legal victory—the BCA determined that fragmentation in the industry, especially over the definition of premium cigar, remains a major obstacle.
“With strong political and economic headwinds ahead, our industry can no longer afford to be fragmented,” said BCA President Armen Caprielian.
The BCA will adopt the CAA’s unified definition of “premium cigar,” dissolve its board, and support existing national organizations going forward. Some programs will continue, including the quarterly sampler program and media support for boutique brands, although the Protecting the Legacy podcast has officially ended.
Reflecting on the transition, Dr. Kafie said:
“This is not an end. This is a new chapter—one built on unity, clarity, and shared purpose.”
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