Sinkender Konsum – Bier ist weltweit weniger gefragt

Worldwide beer production declined by 0.7 percent in 2023, dropping to 189.6 billion liters, according to an analysis conducted by Barthhaas, the world’s largest hop trader based in Nuremberg. The report included data on non-alcoholic beer, which has gained traction in certain regions. The decline was particularly pronounced in Australia and Oceania, where output fell by 2.4 percent to 1.8 billion liters, just a small fraction of global production. In Europe, beer output decreased by 1.6 percent to 51 billion liters, driven largely by declines in Germany and Poland. Despite this, Germany remained among the top six producers globally, maintaining its sixth position behind China, the United States, Brazil, Mexico, and Russia. China continued to dominate Asian production, with output falling by 1.2 percent to 59 billion liters. While India saw an increase, this was offset by declines in China, Vietnam, Japan, South Korea, and Myanmar. China still leads the region, accounting for more than one-sixth of global beer production. Meanwhile, North America recorded a drop of 1.9 percent to 34 billion liters, primarily due to a nearly one-billion-liter decrease in the U.S., although this was partially offset by a rise in Mexico to just under 15 billion liters. In contrast, South America saw a modest increase of 1.7 percent to 25 billion liters, mainly fueled by Brazil's growth to around 15 billion liters. Africa, however, experienced a stronger rebound, with production rising by 2.6 percent to nearly 17 billion liters. The decline in hop cultivation mirrored the trend in beer production. Globally, hop farming areas dropped by 5.5 percent to 52,660 hectares, while harvest volumes fell by 3.8 percent to 109,188 tons. Despite these reductions, experts believe supply still exceeds demand. Heinrich Meier of Barthhaas noted, “Production exceeded even 2025 requirements.” For the current year, Barthhaas expects no increase in beer output, with Thomas Raiser, the company’s managing director, stating, “We anticipate a largely stable, slightly lower production.” He added that growth in Africa, Asia, and parts of the Americas would likely be counterbalanced by declines in Europe and North America. The hop market remains tense, with supply continuing to outpace demand. The shift in beer consumption reflects broader changes in consumer preferences and economic conditions. Non-alcoholic beer, once a niche product, has gained popularity in some markets, contributing to the overall trend of diversification. However, traditional beer production faces challenges, including shifting tastes, regulatory pressures, and environmental concerns. In countries such as Germany, where hop cultivation remains robust despite declining yields, farmers are adapting to new realities. The industry continues to navigate these complex dynamics, balancing sustainability with profitability. As the global beer market adjusts to these trends, stakeholders are preparing for a landscape marked by regional disparities. While some regions show resilience and growth, others face contraction. This uneven pattern underscores the need for strategic adaptation and innovation. With no signs of immediate recovery, the focus will remain on managing resources efficiently and responding to evolving consumer demands. The coming months will reveal how effectively the industry can navigate these challenges.