World: Craft beer market reaches estimated $186.6 bln as of mid-2025

As of mid‑2025, the global craft beer market has reached an estimated $186.6 billion, up from $108.9 bln in 2018 — driven by shifting consumer tastes, rising disposable income, and an appetite for small-batch, artisanal experiences. The category has grown at an 8% CAGR, outperforming broader beer segments, RMI Analytics reported.

Major players like Heineken, Diageo, and Carlsberg have increased investment in craft-like portfolios, acquisitions, and localised brews to meet demand.

North America remains the largest market, but growth in Europe and Asia-Pacific is accelerating.

With on-premise experiences slowly returning post pandemic and consumers seeking more flavour and authenticity, craft beer styles remains a critical lever in brewers’ long-term growth strategies.

E-malt.com, the global information source for the brewing and malting industry professionals. The bi-weekly E-malt.com Newsletters feature latest industry news, statistics in graphs and tables, world barley and malt prices, and other relevant information. Click here to get full access to E-malt.com. If you are a Castle Malting client, you can get free access to E-malt.com website and publications. Contact us for more information at marketing@castlemalting.com .