Cigar factory in Mexico
Los Tuxtlas region extending around volcanic mountains bearing the same name in the southeast of Mexican state Veracruz is famous for the largest tobacco plantations in Mexico. If you are interested to see how cigars are produced, there is nothing easier than to visit the small cigar factory Santa Clara – in the largest town in the area – San Andrés Tuxtla. The tour is free, but it is more or less expected that you will buy something here.
In the cigar factory
Working in the cigar factory is not as idyllic as it seems to be at first glance. Due to ubiquitous dust from tobacco leaves must every worker wear a mask, but even so, this work is very unhealthy and most workers have significant health problems after years.
Working with tobacco leaves
Quality cigars are still done by hand. Total length of the cigar is dependent on the size of tobacco leaf.
Filling of cigars
Filling of cigars requires mainly careful and accurate wrapping.
Final rolling of cigars
It is very easy to measure job performance at this factory :-). But this work is very difficult and requires a lot of practice. Cover sheets are the best that are available.
Packing room
The last section, just like in every factory/sweatshop, is the packing room.
Final packaging of cigars
The finest cigars are wrapped into cedar boxes that do not affect the smell of tobacco.
Portfolio of cigars Santa Clara
At the end of the visit you can buy some products in the local factory shop – you can buy individual pieces, but also this box containing virtually the whole portfolio of the company.