4th Asia-Havana Event concludes with a charity auction for children’s health

By Yoanna Cervera Hernández

The 4th Asia-Havana Event officially closed with an auction that raised $30,500, part of which will be donated to the pediatric ward of the Zoilo Marinello National Institute of Oncology and Radiology. Organized by the Caracol Este Vedado company and its Casa del Habano at the Habana Libre Tryp Hotel, part of the Cubasol Group of the Ministry of Tourism, the event celebrated the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Cuba and China.

The Ambassadors’ Hall of the emblematic Havana hotel hosted the evening’s highlight, with the auction of an exclusive humidor created by artists from Grupo D. Cuba, in collaboration with the Cuban Fund for Cultural Assets of Pinar del Río.

Accompanying the humidor were 80 Ramón Allones Absoluto Limited Edition 2024 cigars, a box of the prestigious Cohiba Behike 54 and 56 cigars, a commemorative 30th anniversary box of Sublime Extra cigars, a Quair Dorsay 50th anniversary box, a bottle of Havana Club 15 Year Old Rum, and another of Don Pancho from the Cuba Ron portfolio.

The final buyer, Jams Lin, representing Hong Kong, expressed his satisfaction at having participated. “This is my first time at the event and the auction. I loved the experience, and Cuban cigars are truly exceptional. Also, knowing that the funds raised will go to public health and sick children makes me feel even more grateful,” he commented exclusively to TTC.

Mayara Zulueta Díaz, deputy commercial director of Caracol Este Vedado, highlighted the diversity of countries present at this edition, with more than 40 participants from places such as China, Japan, the United States, Italy, Turkey and Canada. She also highlighted the program’s new offers, such as the visit to the tobacco farm and factory, which were very popular among attendees. “Sales have been very positive because the products offered generated great interest. Furthermore, the event activities were very attractive to our customers,” Zulueta commented.

A special moment of the evening was the tribute to Yolanda Medina, one of the most influential figures in Cuban cigar culture. Medina was recognized for her tireless dedication to the world of cigars and her legacy in the industry.

The event also included a moving presentation by the Cuban School of Wushu, led by Master Roberto Vargas Lee. “Leyenda China,” the choreography performed alongside the voice of Rafael Espín, sublimely fused the cultural traditions of China and Cuba.

Looking to the future, it was announced that the fifth edition of the Asia-Havana Event will be held from October 5 to 9, 2026. This event seeks to establish itself as part of the Cuban cigar agenda while showcasing its ability to merge the tradition of the cigar with Cuban culture and other premium products.