Tsuge Pipe and L.A. Poche Announce Strategic Partnership to Expand Global Perique Tobacco Production
In a remarkable collaboration, Tsuge Pipe Company and L.A. Poche' Perique Tobacco have officially teamed up to produce and market the distinctive Perique tobacco globally. This partnership, announced on January 7, 2025, marks a significant step in preserving the rich heritage of Perique tobacco, which has been revered since the 18th century as a unique component in premium pipe tobaccos and cigars.
The production process will occur in Southeast Asia, specifically at Tsuge Lao Company Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Tsuge Pipe situated in southern Laos. This expansion seeks to bring Perique tobacco to markets not only in Asia and the Middle East but also across the world, thereby enhancing the availability of this rare product.
L.A. Poche' Perique Tobacco holds a prestigious position as the oldest fully licensed producer of Perique in the United States, and with this new venture, they will contribute their proprietary processes and expert knowledge. Mark S. Ryan, the owner of L.A. Poche', expressed enthusiasm about this collaboration, sharing, "This is an exciting extension of the Perique story, amplifying its traditional roots beyond our main facility in Convent, Louisiana."
The newly branded product, "Tsuge Poche Perique" (TPP), is set to capture the attention of tobacco enthusiasts and collectors. This initiative not only aims to meet the growing demand for Perique tobacco but also to maintain its exceptional quality and craftsmanship.
Tsuge Pipe’s CEO, Sab Tsuge, emphasized that this partnership aligns with their ongoing mission to create high-quality, unique products. He stated, "We are proud to undertake this new production process, ensuring that it matches the quality standards of our renowned artisan smoking pipes."
The collaborative effort involves dedicated teams from both companies, including key figures such as Hiro Mitsui, President of Tsuge Pipe, and Brad Abrams, Director of Research and Development. They are committed to meticulously following the rigorous production processes refined over the last two years in Laos.
This strategic partnership not only exemplifies the fusion of tradition and innovation but also signifies a commitment to expanding the legacy of Perique tobacco. Tsuge Pipe Company, with its historical roots in Japan, is known for producing some of the finest artisan handmade smoking pipes, while L.A. Poche' Perique Tobacco has a rich history tied to the unique cultivation of Perique in St. James Parish, Louisiana. Together, they are poised to usher Perique tobacco into a new era of international recognition and appreciation.
For tobacco enthusiasts, this means an exciting opportunity to experience the craftsmanship and heritage behind Perique like never before. The partnership reflects a broader trend of globalization in the tobacco industry, offering diverse and high-quality products to a worldwide audience. As the demand for premium tobacco products continues to grow, the collaboration between these two esteemed entities is set to redefine the landscape of Perique tobacco, ensuring its legacy endures for generations to come.