EPC Cigar Co’s Response to FDA Deeming Regulation

Ernesto Pérez Carrillo
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 9, 2016
Miami, Florida

Dear Loyal Friends and Clients,

As I am sure you are all aware, a few days ago the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced the final rule on docket FDA-2014-N-0189, which the industry has been referring to as the Deeming Rule or Option 1. Like most in the cigar industry, we are still reviewing the Rule and considering the impact this Rule will have on our manufacturing, distribution and sales processes. However, even in light of the release of this rule, we wanted to let our customers know that we will continue to fight for the rights of cigar smokers across this great country. No matter what the final regulatory landscape and additional financial burdens will be, EPC Cigar Co. will not be diminished by the Federal Government or the FDA. Our family’s tradition of cigar making, which we have been doing now for many generations, will continue in full force. Furthermore, EPC Cigar Company is ready to commit the necessary resources to comply with whatever obligations and restrictions are imposed upon our industry by the FDA, regardless of whether we deem these to be arbitrary, unfair or excessively burdensome. You have our commitment that we will stay true to the family’s ideals of consistency, tradition and passion for perfection in our cigars. In short, we are here to stay!

Sincerely,

Ernesto Pérez Carrillo