World beer production has increased from 1.17 billion hl in 1991 to 1.48 billion hl in 2003. In 2003 brewers sold 35 million hl that is 2.4 % more than a year before. It is expected that the growth of the world beer market will continue, albeit mainly in the developing countries of Asia, Africa and Latin America. Developed countries in Western Europe, North America, Australia and Japan are confronted not only with a saturated demand, but also with a growing competition of other drinks, from wine to alcopops. Beer tax, driving and drinking laws (e.g. Russia), political and economic crises have had and will have temporary and local effects, but did not and will not halt the global growth of beer consumption.

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