The US beer giant, Anheuser-Busch and the China’s largest beer maker Tsingtao Brewery have sealed their strategic alliance. According to the agreement Anheuser-Bush will increase its stake in Tsingtao Brewery from 4.5% to 27% during 7 years investing $ 181 million as financial and technical aid. The first 4.5% of Tsingtao shares were purchased by AB in 1993.

TsingTao is a leading national brand and about 50% of its output is sold abroad in 40 countries. The Chinese beer market is the second largest beer market in the world after USA with its volume of 220 million hl of beer and a 6% annual increase.

24 October, 2002