Russia: Beer prices may increase by 40% if PET bottles are banned

Beer prices in Russia may go up by 40% in 2013, if the government bans plastic bottles for the beverage, Delovaya Gazeta reported on June, 14.

According to industry sources, 48% of beer produced in Russia is sold in PET bottles. The total PET packaging market volume in the country is estimated at around US$1.5 bln, of which beer accounts for 30%.

Average cost of a litre of beer in aluminium cans is 48% more expensive than a litre of beer in PET bottle. Beer in glass bottles are 40% more expensive than beer in PET bottles.

As previously reported, PET bottles for beer may be banned in compliance with the new regulations by the customs union between Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan.

If PET bottles for beer are banned, experts forecast a sharp decline in beer sales.

15 June, 2012