Beer: Who Drinks the Most in Europe

European Union countries produced a total of 34.7 billion liters of beer in 2024, according to Eurostat, marking a modest increase from the previous year. The figure includes 32.7 billion liters of beer with an alcohol content above 0.5%, as well as 2 billion liters of non-alcoholic or low-alcohol beer (with an alcohol content of up to 0.5% by volume).

Production of standard beer (above 0.5% ABV) increased by 0.6% compared to 2023, representing a rise of 200 million liters. In contrast, the non-alcoholic segment saw a more substantial jump of 11.1%, also gaining 200 million liters.

Germany maintained its position as the EU’s top beer producer, with an output of 7.2 billion liters—accounting for 22.2% of the EU’s total production. Spain followed with 4.0 billion liters (12.3%), trailed by Poland with 3.4 billion liters (10.6%). The Netherlands (2.2 billion liters, 6.8%) and Belgium (2.1 billion liters, 6.3%) rounded out the top five.

Greece produced 434 million liters in 2024, placing 12th among EU countries—behind Denmark, Hungary, and Bulgaria.

The data reflect steady growth in both traditional and alcohol-free beer categories, with rising consumer interest in healthier alternatives contributing to the latter’s notable surge.

The Netherlands retained its position as the European Union’s leading beer exporter in 2024, shipping a total of 1.5 billion liters of beer containing alcohol to destinations within and outside the EU.

Source:  Tovima.com