Dutch ahead in Europe
In 2021, the top Beer exporters were Mexico ($5.49B), Netherlands ($2.11B), Belgium ($1.98B), Germany ($1.38B), and United Kingdom ($513M).
According to figures released by Statistics Netherlands (CBS), the Netherlands is still Europe’s biggest exporter of beer, and globally is second only to Mexico.
In 2020, Dutch breweries exported more than two billion euros worth of (non-alcoholic) beer. According to CBS, Heineken is, unsurprisingly, the largest exporter.
In Europe, Belgium comes in a close second; while the Netherlands has been the largest European exporter since 2000, Belgium is quickly closing the gap between the two countries. The Dutch neighbor exported 1,8 billion euros worth of (non-alcoholic) beer last year, climbing ahead of Germany and France who occupy third and fourth place respectively.
Top beer exporters, other source
Below are the countries that exported the highest dollar value worth of beer during 2020.
- Mexico: US$4.3 billion (28.4% of total beer exports)
- Netherlands: $2.1 billion (14.1%)
- Belgium: $2 billion (13.3%)
- Germany: $1.3 billion (8.4%)
- United States: $645.6 million (4.3%)
- United Kingdom: $525.5 million (3.5%)
- France: $386.4 million (2.6%)
- Czech Republic: $297 million (2%)
Source: Beer exports by Country
Belgian beer for everyone
Abbey beers, Trappists, doubles, triples, brown, blonde, or white Belgian beers are known worldwide for their variety. We estimate there are around 3000 different beers in our country spread out over more than 200 breweries. With so much variety, there’s bound to be a type of beer for everyone, whether you like sour, bitter, or sweet. If a traditional blonde “pilsner” doesn’t do it for you, check out which unique beers Belgium makes, maybe there will be one for you!
International Beer Day – 4 August 2023
Or Journée Internationale de la bière – Internationale dag van het bier.
Belgian beer is an excellent cultural export for Belgium and plays an essential role in our economy. Every year, Belgium exports over 6 billion pints! What’s more, our country brews at least 1,500 different beers in over 400 breweries. Internationally, we’re best known for the excellent flavor of our beer. In short, we can be proud of our Belgian beer!
Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs Belgium