Thailand, Bangkok: Several leading international beer brands are set to enter Thailand's annual 1.3-billion-litre beer industry, currently dominated by local brands, Washington Times posted on March 16. Thai Asia Pacific Brewery, which makes Heineken locally and dominates the premium segment, is launching at least two new brands this year, including Tiger. Philippines-based San Miguel announced plans to enter the fray with beers to suit every budget.

Established local brewers appear largely unconcerned. "We at Chang welcome the newcomers into this competitive market," said Thanit Thamsukati of Beer Thai, makers of Chang beer.

Thai beer consumption has gone up from 200 million liters in 1995 to 1.3 billion liters last year.

16 March, 2004