Which Countries Drink the Most Beer?

The global beer industry is massive, contributing more than half a trillion to global GDP.

From barley and hops exporters like France and Argentina to major manufacturers such as Brazil and China, the beer industry is globally interconnected while remaining highly localized. In fact, 89% of supplies used in the beer sector are produced in the domestic market where beer is sold.

This graphic shows which countries drink the most beer, based on data from Kirin Holdings.

The Largest Beer Markets Worldwide

Here are top 25 beer-drinking countries by total consumption in 2022:

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As the above table shows, China, the U.S., and Brazil-the three largest consumers of beer-account for more than 40% of global beer consumption.

China takes top spot, a position it has held for the last 20 consecutive years. Moreover, China stands as the world's largest beer producer. In 2023 alone, 7,000 new beer-related businesses entered the market. Overall, domestic beers make up 90% of the Chinese beer industry, with the largest players being Snow Beer and Tsingtao. As the fastest growing beer market worldwide, revenues are forecast to reach $124.2 billion in 2024.

America ranks in second, consuming roughly half as much beer as China. While Bud Light was the top-selling beer in 2022, it has since been eclipsed by Modelo Especial. Across the $116.9 billion U.S. beer market, domestic beer makes up the largest share, at 63.6% of the total, followed by imported beer, at 23.2%, and craft beer, at 13.3% in 2023.

Following next in line is Brazil, making up 7.8% of global beer consumption. In 2024, the Brazilian beer market is projected to generate $49.3 billion in revenue, with the most valuable beer brand standing as Brahma, known for its pale lagers.