Francisco Matos Mancebo

Francisco Antonio Matos Mancebo is one of the most recognized and influential figures in the Dominican tobacco industry. Widely known as “The Congressman of Tobacco,” he has dedicated much of his career to defending, promoting, and strengthening Dominican tobacco and premium cigars, becoming a respected voice among growers, manufacturers, exporters, retailers, and cigar enthusiasts worldwide.

An Agricultural Engineer by profession, Matos combines technical expertise, public service, and a lifelong passion for tobacco. Throughout his career, he has worked to support agricultural development, protect the reputation of Dominican cigars, and create opportunities for both established manufacturers and emerging boutique producers.

His nickname, “The Congressman of Tobacco,” was earned during his time as a member of the Dominican National Congress. While serving as a Congressman, he became one of the industry's strongest advocates, actively defending the interests of tobacco growers, cigar manufacturers, and exporters. His efforts helped reinforce the importance of tobacco as one of the Dominican Republic’s most valuable agricultural and export industries.

Matos also played an important role within INTABACO, where he worked on initiatives aimed at protecting the authenticity of Dominican cigars. His efforts against counterfeiting and trademark abuse helped preserve the reputation of Dominican premium cigars in international markets and supported the long-term credibility of the country's tobacco sector.

As Technical Operations Director of ADOCITAB, Matos has become one of the driving forces behind major industry initiatives, including Dominican Cigar Expo and other events that showcase Dominican tobacco excellence. Through these efforts, he has helped connect manufacturers, distributors, retailers, media, and consumers while promoting the Dominican Republic as the world's leading producer of premium cigars.

In addition to his institutional work, Francisco Matos is the founder of Matos Cigar Company, a boutique cigar manufacturer behind brands such as Congressman 328, Matos 39, Bad Cat, and Congressman Burn Edition. His flagship brand, Congressman 328, was named after the office number he occupied during his time in Congress, symbolizing the connection between his public service and his passion for premium cigars.

Throughout his career, Matos has been a strong supporter of small and medium-sized tobacco producers, boutique cigar makers, and new entrepreneurs entering the industry. His leadership has contributed to the continued growth of Tamboril, often referred to as the Cigar Capital of the World, and has helped preserve the traditions that define Dominican cigar craftsmanship.

Anti-Counterfeiting Department at the Dominican tobacco authority (INTABACO). He became well known for protecting Dominican tobacco and cigar producers from counterfeit products and illegal use of cigar brands.

His work included:

1. Identifying fake cigar products being sold as authentic Dominican cigars.

2. Protecting intellectual property and cigar trademarks.

3. Supporting small and medium tobacco producers.

4. Working with government agencies to strengthen tobacco industry regulations.

5. Promoting the reputation of Dominican cigars internationally

Today, Francisco Matos is widely regarded as one of the faces of Dominican tobacco. His legacy combines leadership, advocacy, technical expertise, entrepreneurship, and an unwavering commitment to the premium cigar industry. For many within the sector, he represents the spirit, resilience, and international success of Dominican tobacco.