InterTabac 2026 strengthens the cigar segment with new impulses and global partnerships

Dortmund, 28 April 2026 – The importance of the cigar segment at InterTabac is reflected not only in the strong presence of leading cigar companies, but also in a carefully expanded supporting program. This includes established highlights such as the Cigar Blending Experience. In addition, since last year the Cigar Culture Summit – held on the day before the trade show – has provided industry stakeholders with the opportunity to position themselves strategically ahead of the show. Following its successful debut, the format will be further developed in 2026 in collaboration with renowned partners and thought leaders. 

Cigar Culture Summit continues with strong partnersKey pillars for the Cigar Culture Summit on 14 September are already in place. Initial sponsors include industry insiders such as The Leaf Master, Vrijdag, Nova Platinum Cigar, Grupo TPG S.R.L., CST Consulting LLC by Claudio Sgroi, Victor Calvo Premium Cigars, and Stauffenberg Cigars. International knowledge partners include, among others, the European Cigar Manufacturers Association (ECMA), the International Tobacco Growers’ Association (ITGA), and the Premium Cigar Association (PCA). 

For the second time, this compact expert format will provide space for dialogue beyond pure order business. Manufacturers, distributors, specialist retailers, media representatives, and industry strategists will come together to set the course for the upcoming business year. Participants can expect in-depth analyses of global trends, regulatory challenges, and innovative distribution channels. 

Program divided into three thematic streamsThe program will feature three streams combining interactive formats. Stream 1, titled “Emerging Markets & How to Enter Them,” focuses on the real opportunities for international expansion and shows how brands can strategically tap into new regions. Stream 2, “Innovation & Quality Leadership in Premium Cigars,” highlights how manufacturers can further develop their portfolios without losing the character of their brand. Both streams will be held in English. Stream 3 will be conducted in German and is specifically tailored to specialist cigar and pipe retailers in the DACH region, addressing the key question: how can retail be strengthened for the future in these dynamic times? The full program is currently in development and will be continuously updated online. The Cigar Culture Summit will conclude with the Cigar Reception. 

Blending Experience provides purchasing guidanceThose who start the trade show with this knowledge advantage can deepen it over the following days. Topics such as regulation, market analysis, and sustainability will also be at the forefront of the InterTabac conference program. In addition, master blender Claudio Sgroi will offer in-depth insights into the art of cigar blending throughout all days of the event. This exclusive retailer format provides concrete guidance for purchasing decisions. 

New partnership expands the cigar industry networkHowever, it is not only the trade show itself that continues to evolve. The InterTabac team is also expanding its engagement beyond the event in Dortmund. As an exclusive trade fair partner, InterTabac now supports the Lagos Cigar Festival in Nigeria. The exclusive event celebrated its premiere in the metropolis last year and is the first of its kind in Africa. This year, it will take place on December 28 and 29. 

The two founders, Francis Omene and Nero Asibelua, explain why the partnership with the world’s leading tobacco trade fair is so important to them: “The Lagos Cigar Festival is a vision born out of a desire to elevate cigar culture in Africa to a global standard. Our collaboration with InterTabac represents a powerful bridge between Africa and the international cigar community. Together, we are building something truly historic, a platform that will redefine the premium cigar experience across the continent.” 

More information about the Lagos Cigar Festival is available here. 

Tickets for InterTabac, the Cigar Culture Summit, and additional side events are already available online.