Top Takeaways:
- China Tobacco International (HK) inked an exclusive global distribution deal with China Tobacco Sichuan for its Great Wall cigar brand, covering all international markets except mainland China.
- The agreement expands distribution beyond existing duty-free markets in Thailand, Singapore, Hong Kong, Macau, and China’s domestic duty-free space.
- Great Wall Cigars already hold over a 50% share in the Chinese handmade cigar segment, with nearly 70% market share in the premium category, underscoring its domestic dominance.
China Tobacco International (HK) (CTI) has signed an exclusive distribution agreement with China Tobacco Sichuan Industrial Co. Ltd. to expand its Great Wall cigar brand from select duty-free markets to global markets, excluding mainland China. The agreement, finalized on July 23, marks a pivotal escalation in China’s overseas cigar ambitions.
Previously, Great Wall cigars were sold exclusively in duty-free zones in Thailand, Singapore, Hong Kong, Macau, and China’s domestic duty-free channels. Under the new agreement, CTI gains rights to distribute globally, aiming to establish a unified international sales platform for the brand.
Great Wall is China’s top handmade cigar brand. In the first half of 2025, it commanded more than 50% of the domestic handmade cigar market and nearly 70% of the premium handmade segment.
The deal reflects CTI’s broader goal to implement high-quality development strategies and drive international growth for Chinese tobacco. Both partners seek to innovate export models, elevate profits, and strengthen China’s cigar presence globally.
In a formal announcement published on July 25 via Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing, CTI’s board stated that the agreement “broadens development space and generates new revenue streams… building a global sales platform for Chinese cigars.”
The launch aligns with Great Wall being showcased at Inter Tabac 2025, where CTI will present the brand on a global trade stage.
