E-Malt.com News article: China: Country’s importance on the beer market is attracting many of the world’s largest breweries

Per capita, consumption is still relatively modest in a country of 1 billion-plus people but, in terms of output, China leads the world, theage.com.au said on July 29.

With about 393 mln hl produced in 2007, China stands highest on the podium, draped in gold.

The country’s importance on the beer market has already attracted many of the world’s largest breweries. InBev, SABMiller and Anheuser-Busch, for instance, have set up operations in China as joint ventures with local partners. Foster's and Lion Nathan have both been involved in similar arrangements in the past, but sold their Chinese brewing interests.

Tsingtao, the most recognisable Chinese beer brand worldwide, was established by German interests in 1903. While the original brewery site in Qingdao (earlier, Tsingtao) still operates, the company also owns about 20 breweries in various parts of the country.

Named as the major beer sponsor for the Beijing Olympics, Tsingtao is exported to more than 50 countries, including the US, where it accounts for 25% of the imported beer market, worth more than $40 million. Tsingtao has always shown a touch more hop character than most Asian lagers and that might reflect the fact that China grows a lot of hops.

Tastes of China

Tsingtao (4.3% alcohol) China's best-known brew has a hint of aromatic hops, a pleasantly malty mid-palate and a delicate bitterness. The beer of choice when dining in Chinatown. Available in 330ml and 640ml bottles.

Shanghai Lager (4.7%). Brewed in the European premium lager style, this easy-drinking beer stands up well to the competition of much better-known imported brands. A welcome newish arrival to these shores. In 330ml bottles.


29 July, 2008