Mexico has firmly established itself as the world’s top beer exporter, a title it has held since 2010, and ranks fourth in global beer production, according to Cerveceros de México. Over the past 14 years, Mexican beer has reached more than 180 countries, with one out of every five beers consumed globally being of Mexican origin.
In 2023, beer surpassed all other exports from Mexico, with sales abroad reaching an impressive USD 6.1 billion, as reported by Forbes Mecico. This figure equates to over USD 16.88 million in daily exports, making beer the country's top-selling product internationally, outpacing tequila, which generated USD 4.4 billion in the same period, according to the Bank of Mexico.
The beer industry has become a key contributor to Mexico’s economy, making up 1.6% of the national GDP in 2022. Over the past decade, the sector has expanded by 61.2%, with production volumes increasing from 84.6 million hectolitres in 2013 to 136.4 million hectolitres in 2023. This represents an average annual growth rate of 4.9%.
But also the non-alcoholic beer segment in Mexico has experienced substantial growth, with a compound annual growth rate of over 30% from 2019 to 2023, driven by health-conscious consumers seeking moderate drinking options. While only 0.6% of the market, non-alcoholic beer has great potential, especially with brands like Corona introducing non-alcoholic options. Advanced technologies in desalcoholization ensure the authentic taste of beer, making the category increasingly attractive.
Mexico’s contribution to global beer production is significant, representing 7.5% of the world’s supply, trailing behind brewing giants like China (19.1%), the United States (10.3%), and Brazil (7.8%).
Additionally, the beer industry in Mexico plays a crucial role in the nation’s tax revenues. In 2023, beer was the second-largest contributor to the Special Tax on Products and Services (STPS), bringing in USD 2.3 billion, second only to gasoline.
Beyond its economic impact, the beer industry is also a major source of employment. According to the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI), over 700,000 jobs are supported across the beer sector's value chain. Furthermore, workers in this industry enjoy higher-than-average wages compared to other sectors in the alcoholic beverage market, making it a sought-after employment option.
With its strong export market, growing production, and significant contributions to the economy, Mexico continues to solidify its status as a global leader in the beer industry. The country’s beer sector not only drives international trade but also strengthens domestic employment and tax revenues, underscoring its importance on both national and global stages.
