10 Africa's biggest champagne importers

In Africa, having a good time is a way of life. Whether you're in the heart of the city or out in remote villages, there's a deep-rooted appreciation for the art of enjoyment. This often involves sharing drinks, from beer and other beverages to more refined options, depending on the occasion and the social setting.

For instance, Champagne in Africa is often associated with luxury. It holds a special place in the continent's culture, particularly in upscale events, weddings, and exclusive gatherings. And its demand has been steadily increasing, fueled by a rising affluent class that appreciates luxury goods.

A report by the Comité interprofessionnel du vin de Champagne (CIVC or Champagne Committee) has revealed the ranking of African countries as the main importers of champagne in 2023. This ranking highlights the growing importance of this emblematic beverage in certain regions of the continent.

With 1.42 million bottles in 2023, compared to 1.34 million in 2022, South Africa stands out as the largest importer of champagne and takes first place in the ranking. In second place is Côte d'Ivoire, with 681,549 bottles imported in 2023, worth 16.3 million euros.

The Democratic Republic of Congo takes third place, with 360,451 bottles of champagne in 2023, worth 14.6 million euros.

However, globally, champagne shipments fell by 8.2 per cent to 299 million bottles in 2023. According to Comité Champagne, orders have returned to a "steady pace" and pre-COVID levels, following a rollercoaster three years that saw shipments slide during lockdowns in 2020 before rebounding strongly in 2021 and 2022.

"The decline was to be expected - but with the value maintained, champagne is still optimistic for the future, whilst remaining sensitive to the geopolitical context and the state of the global economy," said David Chatillon, president of the Union des Maisons de Champagne and co-president of the Comité ChampagneChampagne.

Notably, shipments from France to Nigeria, Africa's largest economy have plunged to the lowest level in at least 11 years largely on the back of rising inflation and a weaker naira. The country's champagne import volumes fell by 53.2 per cent to 302,141 bottles last year from 646,036 bottles in 2022.

Below are 10 African countries that imported the most champagne in 2023: