HS Code:
Beer made from malt, classified under HS Code 2203, encompasses a wide range of alcoholic beverages produced primarily from malted barley, hops, water, and yeast. This category includes lagers, ales, stouts, and other beer types, representing one of the most widely consumed alcoholic beverages globally. The trade of beer is influenced by cultural preferences, production capabilities, and trade agreements, with significant variations in consumption and export patterns across regions.
Total Trade Volume
USD 16.5 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 5.2 billion
31.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 2.8 billion
17.0% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 2.1 billion
12.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 1.5 billion
9.1% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 1.2 billion
7.3% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
30% (in certain Middle Eastern and South Asian countries with alcohol restrictions)
Lowest Rate
0% (within free trade agreements like EU Single Market or USMCA)
Rise in Craft Beer Exports
Increased demand for specialty and craft beers has boosted exports from countries like the United States and Belgium, diversifying the market beyond traditional lager brands.
2020-2022
Shift to Low and Non-Alcoholic Beer
Growing health consciousness has driven demand for low-alcohol and non-alcoholic beers, influencing trade patterns with higher exports from countries like Germany and the Netherlands.
2021-2023
Regional Trade Agreements
Agreements like the USMCA and EU trade deals have reduced tariffs, boosting intra-regional trade, particularly for Mexican and European beers.
2019-2022
Ongoing negotiations aim to reduce tariffs on alcoholic beverages, including beer, potentially increasing European beer exports to South America.
Mid-2023
Could open new markets for European exporters, especially Belgium and Germany.
Tariffs on aluminum imports in the US have increased packaging costs for beer producers, affecting export competitiveness.
Early 2023
May reduce profit margins for US beer exporters and impact trade volumes.
Mexican beer brands like Corona and Modelo have solidified their position in the US market, driven by strong demand and effective marketing.
Late 2022
Further cements Mexico's position as the leading beer exporter globally.