Portugal: Beer industry continues to decline

Consumption of beer in Portugal declined by about 20% over the last three years, mostly because of the economic crisis and a sharp increase in taxes, and is now at the lowest level in the last thirty years, EFE reported on March, 12.

According to data by the Portuguese Brewers Association, consumption per capita was 48 litres in 2012, much lower than the average 72 litres of beer consumed per capita in the EU. Total Portuguese beer output reached about 7.5 mln hl last year, of which 0.3 mln hl were exported (+20% vs. 2011). The trade association does not see any positive prospects for the industry this year.

Portugal’s beer market is dominated by Sagres (owned by Cervejas e Bebidas) and Super Bock (Unicer), which together command almost 90% of the market.