The latest data released by the General Administration of Customs shows that China’s beer exports maintained steady growth from January to April 2025, with a cumulative export volume of 23,406 million liters (approximately 234,060 kiloliters), marking an 8.8% year-on-year increase. The export value reached 1.14534 billion yuan, up 9.9% year-on-year. In April alone, exports surged to 62.79 million liters, a 17.8% increase compared to the same period last year, while export value rose to 304.68 million yuan, up 14.9%. These figures indicate that Chinese beer is gaining stronger competitiveness in international markets, driven by sustained overseas demand. 

Volume and Value Rise in Tandem, Asian Markets Lead Growth 

Analysts note that the growth in beer exports is primarily fueled by robust demand from emerging markets in Southeast Asia and Africa. Countries such as Vietnam, the Philippines, and Myanmar have seen rapid increases in beer consumption, with Chinese products becoming a preferred choice for local importers due to their cost-effectiveness and consistent quality. Additionally, growing interest in Chinese craft beers from some European markets has further boosted export momentum. 

The export value growth rate (9.9%) slightly outpacing the volume growth rate (8.8%) reflects improved product pricing and brand premiumization. Leading breweries like Tsingtao Beer and China Resources Snow Breweries have successfully penetrated mid-to-high-end overseas markets by launching premium product lines, enhancing overall export profitability. 

Strong April Performance Signals Seasonal Demand 

April’s 17.8% year-on-year surge in beer exports marked an acceleration compared to the first quarter. Industry experts attribute this to overseas markets entering their summer stocking season. As temperatures rise in the Northern Hemisphere, beer consumption enters its traditional peak period, prompting distributors to increase procurement and driving short-term export spikes. 

Declining international logistics costs have also supported export growth. Global shipping prices in 2025 have fallen compared to 2023, reducing transportation expenses and further strengthening the price competitiveness of Chinese products. 

Domestic Capacity Optimization Fuels Global Expansion 

In recent years, China’s beer industry has advanced supply-side structural reforms. Major players have shut down inefficient production lines, invested in high-end product development, and shifted from a “volume-driven” to a “quality-driven” strategy. This transformation has not only boosted domestic profitability but also laid the groundwork for overseas expansion. For instance, Tsingtao Beer reported a 12% year-on-year increase in overseas revenue in its 2023 annual report, with notable growth in European and Southeast Asian markets. 

Customs data also highlights that the rapid growth in beer exports aligns with broader trends in China’s food and beverage sector. From January to April, total exports of beverages and alcohol rose by 11.2%, underscoring the accelerating internationalization of China’s food industry. 

Future Outlook: Challenges and Opportunities 

Despite the current growth momentum, challenges such as fluctuating raw material costs and uncertainties in the global trade environment persist. Prices of barley and hops, heavily influenced by international conditions, may squeeze profit margins. Additionally, tax policy adjustments on alcoholic beverages in some countries could impact export performance. 

However, deeper economic cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative and the rising global influence of Chinese beer brands suggest significant long-term potential. Industry insiders predict that annual beer exports could exceed 700,000 kiloliters in 2024, setting a new historical record. 

The sustained growth in China’s beer exports reflects both domestic industrial upgrades and growing global recognition of “Made in China” products. Under the “dual circulation” development strategy, optimizing supply chains and strengthening brand building will be critical for breweries to thrive in international competition.