DON EMMANUEL CIGARS EXPANDS INTO SOUTH AFRICA THROUGH NEW DISTRIBUTION PARTNERSHIP

Don Emmanuel Cigars announces its expansion into South Africa, marking the brand’s first entry into the African continent. The distribution agreement has been finalized with Amano Cigars, a respected importer and distributor of premium cigars in South Africa that also operates the Pedro Portia Cigar & Champagne Lounge, widely regarded as the country’s premier cigar destination, located at the Gantry Lifestyle Center in Fourways, Gauteng.

This announcement follows the brand’s recent expansion across the Caribbean and Latin America, reinforcing a pattern of steady international growth driven by rising consumer interest in the brand’s debut line, Anunnaki.

Anunnaki is co-blended by Don Emmanuel and legendary Master Blender Eladio Díaz and produced at Tabacalera Díaz Cabrera in the Dominican Republic. The line features seven distinct tobaccos, including a rare Dominican wrapper and a Mexican San Andrés Negro binder, and has earned attention for its balance, evolution, and expressive smoking experience.

Born in São Paulo, Brazil, Don Emmanuel combines formal expertise with deep personal tobacco heritage. A Master Cigar Sommelier, his passion was shaped early through his family, including his grandmother’s work with Suerdieck, once the world’s largest cigar manufacturer. Decades of study, factory visits, and collaboration with industry leaders continue to inform his refined approach to blending.

The brand’s expansion is supported by a diverse leadership team combining creative, blending, and commercial expertise.

Martin Olivier Weber, a Swiss-born global executive, brings decades of senior leadership experience from multinational companies including Nestlé and PepsiCo, with a background in general management, marketing, and international growth strategy.

Alejandro Mejía Garagorry, International Sales Director and Partner, contributes more than two decades of experience in global sales and market development, having held senior roles at PepsiCo and Mondelez International across the Americas.

“Our focus has always been on building something meaningful and lasting,” said Martin Olivier Weber, Partner, Don Emmanuel Cigars. “We are taking a disciplined approach to growth, entering markets that appreciate craftsmanship, culture, and authenticity. South Africa represents a strong strategic step in that journey.”

With Amano Cigars serving as the official distributor, Don Emmanuel Cigars will now be introduced to a growing South African market known for its sophisticated cigar consumers and established lounge culture. The presence of Pedro Portia provides a natural cultural platform for the brand within the region.

All three vitolas of the Anunnaki line — Anu (6 x 52 Toro), Ki (5 x 50 Robusto), and Corona Fina (4 x 38, Tin of 5) — will be available through the South African distribution channel.