Belgium: Beer consumption down 2.1% in 2024

Belgian beer consumption dropped by 2.1 per cent in 2024. This marks a continued decline, albeit less steep than the 6 per cent fall recorded in 2023, Belga News Agency reported on June 5.

The hospitality sector saw the sharpest drop at 2.9 per cent, while retail sales slipped by 1.5 per cent, according to figures released by Belgian Brewers.

Exports also shrank, down 3.4 per cent overall. Sales to EU countries fell 2.6 per cent, while exports beyond the EU slumped by 8 per cent. Despite this, 70 per cent of Belgium’s beer production is still sold abroad.

This follows three consecutive years of export decline and domestic contraction. Consumption is now nearly 20 per cent below 2014 levels.

The number of breweries dropped to 411 last year, six fewer than in 2023. Yet brewers remain optimistic. “Despite the downward trend, the Belgian beer sector continues to distinguish itself through adaptability and resilience”, they said.

This resilience is reflected in the 178 million euros invested in 2024 in modernisation, sustainability, and strengthening local roots. However, the sector warns it needs a stable regulatory environment and urges policymakers to focus on tackling alcohol misuse without stigmatising moderate consumption.