As Cubans endured power outages, the Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel attended the lavish closing party of the XXV Festival del Habano. Photographers captured Díaz-Canel enjoying a cigar during the auction of a humidor, which sold for a staggering 4.6 million euros (approximately 4.7 million dollars) at the Pabexpo venue.
The auctioned item bore the logo of Cohiba Behíkeuya and was signed by Díaz-Canel himself, adding a "special touch" to its value. This was not a first for the leader, as he had previously participated in the high-profile auction, signing a Cohiba humidor that sold for nearly five million dollars at the 2024 Festival del Habano.
Luxurious Celebrations Amidst National Crisis
The opulent celebrations surrounding the Festival starkly contrast with the dire crisis plaguing the nation, where daily blackouts affect every province across the island.
The closing of the 25th edition of the Festival del Habano on Friday featured a gala and the auction of six exclusive humidors representing global Habanos brands, along with one dedicated to the exclusive Behíke line. The auction raised about 17 million dollars from the Behíke and the other six humidors, which did not bear Díaz-Canel's signature.
Funding Health Amidst Deteriorating Services
According to state media, the funds are intended for the Cuban healthcare system, a promise the regime has made repeatedly, even as the health system continues to decline.
Among the 2,000 attendees at the gala were Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz, relatives of Fidel and Raúl Castro, and Olympic wrestling champion Mijaín López, as reported by AFP.
Exclusive Events for the Elite
On Thursday, a private party at the Capitol, attended by 600 guests, featured a luxurious dinner, performances by artists, and the worldwide launch of the H. Upmann Magnum 50 Gran Reserva Cosecha 2019. Present were Díaz-Canel's stepson and "advisor" Manuel Anido Cuesta, and Lourdes Dávalos, a lawyer known for defending the regime in a lawsuit against the National Bank of Cuba over a substantial debt.
During the event organized by Habanos S.A., it was revealed that the company's sales hit a record high in 2024, with revenues reaching 827 million dollars, marking a 16% increase from the previous year. China emerged as the most profitable market for the company, followed by Spain, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and Germany.
Despite the immense profits of Habanos S.A., a joint venture with 50% ownership by the Cuban regime and 50% by Asian investors, Cubans continue to face a severe shortage of this product on the island.
Insights on the Festival del Habano and Its Impact
What is the XXV Festival del Habano?
The XXV Festival del Habano is a prestigious event celebrating Cuban cigars, featuring exclusive parties, auctions of luxury humidors, and attracting global attention and attendees.
How much did the auction raise?
The auction raised approximately 17 million dollars from the sale of several exclusive humidors, including one signed by Miguel Díaz-Canel.
Where are the funds from the auction supposed to go?
The funds from the auction are reportedly intended to support the Cuban healthcare system, although the quality of services continues to worsen.