Belgium stands alone in beer exports

The latest figures confirm that when it comes to beer exporting countries, Belgium reigns as king. Last year saw 18.75 million hectolitres of beer produced, with 62% finding its way into foreign markets. Although Germany exports more beer per hectolitre, Belgium is the leading exporter of the percentage of beer produced.

In fact, Europe as a whole prefers exports over imports when it comes to beer.  Of the 390 million hectolitres that hit the shelves last year, only 357 million hectolitres of it were consumed in EU countries.

With upwards of 4,500 beer producers in Europe, ranging from national breweries to micro operations, the industry, with annual revenues of €111 billion, creates two million jobs for Europeans.

This is good news for local economies, as well as national governments that see €53 million collected in beer taxes every year.