Spain consolidates its position as the second largest beer producer in the EU with record exports in 2025

 

Minister Agriculture, Fishing and Food, Luis Planas, has confirmed that Spain It is positioned as the second largest beer producer in the European Union and eighth worldwide. This milestone is the result of an internationalization strategy that enabled record exports worth 328 million euros in 2025.

 

Economic strength and weight in the agri-food industry

 

During the inauguration of the General Assembly of Brewers of Spain celebrated in Madrid, the minister Luis Planas He emphasized the strategic importance of this activity for the national economy. The sector currently generates a turnover exceeding [amount missing]. 5.700 millones de euros and holds more than 11.000 jobs direct.

 

One of the pillars of this industry is its integration with the primary sector. According to the data provided, more than 90% of the raw materials The ingredients used (mainly barley and hops) come directly from the Spanish countryside. In this sense, the Government of Spain He highlighted the financial support available through tools such as:

 

• Support for precision agriculture: Endowed with more than 235 million euros.
• Agri-food Sector: Grant of approximately 320 million euros for more than 440 modernization projects, focused on energy efficiency and the circular economy.

 

Key figures for the brewing sector in Spain

 

Economic Indicator	Value / Data
Total revenue of the sector	> 5.700 million euros
Exports (Record 2025)	328 millones de euros
Direct employment	> 11.000 people
National origin of raw materials	90 %
Productive position in the EU	since 2º

 

Leadership in innovation and "alcohol-free" consumption

 

The Spanish industry stands out not only for its volume, but also for its ability to adapt to new global trends. Spain It currently leads in consumption of alcohol-free beer in the Western world. This cutting edge in innovation responds to the evolution of consumer habits, which demand products with lower alcohol content or more natural ingredients.

 

Furthermore, beer plays a fundamental role in the pairing. tourism-gastronomyThe sector represents approximately a quarter of the revenue of bars and hospitality establishments. Planas, “The main sales driver for Spanish agri-food products is those who visit us.”highlighting that one in four beers produced in the country is consumed by tourists.

 

Internationalization and external projection

 

The brewing sector will play a special role in the new Plan for the Internationalization of Spanish GastronomyThe aim is to use beer, which is culturally linked to... tapa and the Mediterranean lifestyle, as a lever to strengthen the international projection of other foods and beverages of national origin in global markets.

 

Key points and frequently asked questions about the brewing sector

What is Spain's position in world beer production?

Spain has consolidated its position as the second largest producer in the European Union and eighth in the world ranking.

How important is exporting to this industry?

It is a key growth engine that reached a record figure of 328 million euros in foreign sales in 2025.

How does the Government support the modernization of the sector?

Through the Agri-food Program, with 320 million euros allocated to modernization, energy efficiency and new products, in addition to specific aid for precision agriculture.