As the cacao-yielding region in the world is comparatively restricted, the planters of this staple need not fear the increasing competition which has been met in the cultivation of other staple products. At the present time it is estimated that $12,400,000 are invested in the cultivation of cacao in Venezuela.
TOBACCO
Tobacco, discovered by the Spaniards in Yucatan, was introduced from there to the West Indies and thence transplanted to Venezuela, where it is most successfully cultivated in Capadare, Yaritagua, Mérida, Cumanacoa, Guanape, Guaribe and Barinas. Excellent tobacco is grown near Cumaná, that from Guacharo being considered exceptionally good. The plant thrives best in humid and fertile soil. Cultivation requires about six months in Venezuela before it is ready for the market, and while the cost of cultivation is not large, great care is required.
Some tobacco is exported from Venezuela, chiefly to Havana, where it is mixed in the manufacture of Havana cigarettes.
The different classes of tobacco grown in Venezuela are distinguished according to the regions where they are produced. These regions are
Maturin:
This grade of tobacco is produced chiefly in Venezuela and is used in the manufacture of Venezuelan cigarettes. It is one of the better known classes of tobacco entering foreign trade. This class of tobacco has:
1. Leaves which are light with relation to their bulk.
2. Medium strength, agreeable aroma.
3. It will keep in good condition for a maximum of two years but then begins to rot and completely loses its strength.