IWSR has updated its forecasts for the global alcoholic beverage market and points to a sharper decline than previously estimated for 2025: a drop of 0,4% in volume and 0,7% in value.

Compared to the initial estimate of -0,2%, this correction reflects economic and regulatory challenges, particularly in the US and Chinese markets, which are putting pressure on categories that traditionally supported global consumption.

RTD above average

The IWSR review distinguishes performance by category: global beer volume is estimated to have fallen by about 0,2%, spirits by 1,3%, and wine by 2,4% by 2025. In contrast, ready -to-drink (RTD) beverages are projected to have grown by about 1,3%.

This sharper-than-expected decline specifically reflects the unexpected drop in beer consumption, previously estimated to grow by 0,2%, given that this category has a significant weight in global statistics.

The IWSR identifies economic factors and political decisions as the main reasons for the negative review. In the United States, pressure on the cost of living has led many consumers to eat out less, which particularly penalizes beer in bars and restaurants.

In China, in addition to the economic slowdown, government measures such as luxury regulations and restrictions on alcohol consumption at public events are weighing on beer and brandy volume projections.