The celebrated Humidor Auction at the 25th Habanos Festival achieved a record-breaking collection of 17.94 million euros. The Cuban regime has announced that these funds will be allocated to the national public health system, as is claimed each year. However, many Cubans fail to see this financial contribution reflected in the actual state of the country's hospitals and medical facilities, which have been in critical condition for over a decade, particularly struggling after the COVID-19 crisis in 2020.
According to Prensa Latina, a lower amount of 16.41 million euros was reported, with the auction taking place at the Pabexpo fairgrounds in Havana during the Gala Dinner that concluded the event. The evening was attended by Cuba's leader Miguel Díaz-Canel and Prime Minister Manuel Marrero. Although this auction is touted as a gesture of solidarity from Cuban cigar enthusiasts, its tangible impact on public health remains questionable among the populace.
It is also customary for the Cuban leader to autograph the humidors. In the 2024 edition, Díaz-Canel signed a luxurious Cohiba humidor, which sold for 4.9 million dollars and contributed to a total collection of 17.8 million euros. Notably, this year, the Cuban Presidency has not released any photos or significant details about the event. Furthermore, neither the official press nor Cuban artists have shared images of the leader at the celebration or signing the humidors, despite confirmation of his attendance. The only place where images of Díaz-Canel smoking cigars at the 25th Habanos Festival have appeared is in the international press, which many outlets cannot use due to image rights.
An Event of Opulence Amid Crisis
Every year, the event draws affluent individuals and collectors from the tobacco world. This edition featured the auction of seven exclusive humidors, representing the most prestigious global brands of Habanos S.A.: Cohiba, Montecristo, Romeo y Julieta, Partagás, Hoyo de Monterrey, and H. Upmann. A highlight was the commemorative humidor for the 15th anniversary of the Behike Line, which fetched 4.6 million euros, becoming the priciest piece of the night.
Each humidor is a masterpiece crafted by Cuba's finest artisans, designed to preserve the country's most iconic cigars. Yet, this lavish celebration starkly contrasts with the shortage of medical supplies, lack of medicines, and the visible deterioration of hospitals on the island.
Where Are the Funds?
Despite the millions raised in each Habanos Festival edition, the Cuban healthcare system remains in severe crisis. Citizens face long lines for basic medications, which are priced beyond their financial reach, hospitals lack minimum hygiene standards, and the country's medical infrastructure is in disrepair. The persistent question is: Where does the auction money go? The Cuban regime continues to assert that the funds are meant to enhance healthcare, but there are no audits or evidence to support this claim.
A Tradition Lacking Transparency
This is not the first year the auction has reached such high figures. The event serves as a showcase of luxury and power, highlighting the disconnect between the nation's elite and the people's urgent needs. The lack of transparency regarding the allocation of the raised funds breeds skepticism and criticism. The Cuban public is left waiting for answers that seem unlikely to come. In this display of extravagance, public health remains the greatest loser.
Habanos Festival Auction Funds and Their Impact
How much money was raised at the 25th Habanos Festival auction?
The 25th Habanos Festival auction raised a record-breaking 17.94 million euros.
Is the auction money really used for Cuban public health?
The Cuban regime claims the auction proceeds support public health, but there is skepticism due to a lack of transparency and visible improvements.
What was the most expensive item sold at the auction?
The most expensive item was a commemorative humidor for the 15th anniversary of the Behike Line, sold for 4.6 million euros.