The traditional Humidor Auction at the 25th Habanos Festival achieved a record revenue of 17,940,000 euros. The regime stated that the amount will be allocated to the Cuban public health system, as they do every year.
However, many Cubans do not see this contribution reflected in the reality of the hospitals and medical centers in the country, which have been in a critical situation for over a decade, and especially collapsed after the coronavirus crisis in 2020.
Prensa Latina reported a lower amount raised (16,410,000 euros) and detailed that the auction took place at the Pabexpo fairgrounds in Havana during the Gala Dinner that concluded the event, which was attended by the ruling Miguel Díaz-Canel and Prime Minister Manuel Marrero.
This event is a tradition at the Habano Festival and is presented as an act of solidarity among enthusiasts of Cuban tobacco, although its actual impact on public health raises doubts among the population.
Another tradition is that the Cuban leader signs the humidors. In the 2024 edition, Díaz-Canel signed a luxurious Cohiba humidor which was sold for 4.9 million dollars, contributing to a total fundraising of 17.8 million euros.
This year, the Presidency of Cuba has not shared images or relevant information about the event. There have also been no sightings in the state media or among Cuban artists of the leader at the celebration or signing the humidors, despite the confirmation of his attendance.
The only place where photos of Díaz-Canel smoking tobacco have been published during the XXV Festival del Habano is in the international press, and due to image rights, many media outlets will not be able to use them.
An opulent event amidst the crisis
The event each year attracts moguls and collectors from the world of tobacco. This edition was marked by 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.
It also highlighted the commemorative humidor for the 15th anniversary of the Behike Line, which reached a value of 4.6 million euros, making it the most expensive piece of the night.
Each of these humidors is a masterpiece created by the finest Cuban artisans, aimed at preserving the country's most iconic cigars. However, this luxurious celebration stands in stark contrast to the shortage of medical supplies, the lack of medications, and the evident deterioration of hospitals on the island.
Where are the funds?
Despite the millions raised in each edition of the Habanos Festival, the Cuban healthcare system is in a deep crisis.
Citizens face long queues to obtain basic medications at prices beyond their economic means, hospitals lack minimum hygiene conditions, and the country has a collapsed medical infrastructure.
The recurring question remains: Where does the money from these auctions go? The Cuban regime insists that the funds are allocated to improving health, but there are no audits or evidence to support this claim.
A tradition without transparency
This is not the first year that the auction reaches million-dollar figures. The event is a showcase of luxury and power, highlighting the disconnect between the country's elite and the urgent needs of the population.
The lack of transparency regarding the allocation of the raised funds generates skepticism and criticism. The Cuban people are waiting for answers that will not come. Public health is the great loser in this spectacle of ostentation.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Havana Festival and its Impact on Cuba
What was the total amount raised from the humidors auction at the 2025 Habanos Festival?
The auction of humidors at the XXV Festival del Habano raised a total of 17.9 million dollars. However, despite official statements claiming that these funds are allocated to the Cuban healthcare system, many citizens do not see improvements in the hospitals and medical centers across the country.
How does the Habano Festival affect the healthcare system in Cuba?
Although it is stated that the funds raised from events like the Habanos Festival are allocated to the healthcare system, the reality is that Cuban hospitals remain in a critical state. The lack of transparency in the use of these funds generates skepticism and criticism among the population.
Why does the Habanos Festival generate criticism in Cuba?
The festival is seen as a luxury event that contrasts with the economic and social crisis facing the country. While the elite celebrate with opulence, a large part of the population suffers from a shortage of basic resources, prolonged blackouts, and a collapsed healthcare system.
What does the Cuban population think about the destination of the funds raised at the Festival del Habano?
The Cuban population is skeptical about the fate of these funds, as there are no visible improvements in the healthcare system or in the medical infrastructure of the country. The lack of audits and transparency fuels distrust in the government.
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