China Craft Beer Market (2026-2032) | Size & Revenue, Value, Segmentation, Share, Growth, Outlook, Industry, Forecast, Trends, Analysis, Competitive Landscape, Companies

Market Forecast By Type (Ales, Pilsners and Pale Lagers, Specialty Beers, Others), By Distibution Channel (On-Trade, Off-Trade) And Competitive Landscape

Product Code: ETC6740705 Publication Date: Sep 2024 Updated Date: Feb 2026 Product Type: Market Research Report
Publisher: 6Wresearch Author: Sumit Sagar No. of Pages: 75 No. of Figures: 35 No. of Tables: 20

China Craft Beer Market Growth Rate

According to 6Wresearch internal database and industry insights, the China Craft Beer Market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.1% during the forecast period (2026-2032).

Five-Year Growth Trajectory of the China Craft Beer Market with Core Drivers

Below mentioned is the evaluation of year-wise growth rate along with key growth drivers:

Year Est. Annual Growth (%) Growth Drivers
2021 6.5% Increased consumer preference for craft beer and premium alcoholic beverages
2022 7.2% Rise in domestic craft beer production and local brewery expansion
2023 7.8% Growing demand for unique flavors and variety of craft beer
2024 8% Improved distribution channels and increasing bar and restaurant adoption
2025 8.5% Expansion of craft beer events and festivals increasing awareness

Topics Covered in the China Craft Beer Market Report

The China Craft Beer Market report thoroughly covers the market by Type and Distribution Channel. The market report provides an unbiased and detailed analysis of ongoing market trends, opportunities/high growth areas, and market drivers, which help stakeholders devise and align their market strategies according to the current and future market dynamics.

China Craft Beer Market Highlights

Report Name China Craft Beer Market
Forecast period 2026-2032
CAGR 9.1%
Growing Sector On-Trade Channel

China Craft Beer Market Synopsis

China Craft Beer Market is projected to witness a remarkable increase, which is mainly attributable to the enthusiastic consumer base who are constantly on the lookout for new Flavor experiences, being enlightened on the brewing process, and challenging the notion of a standard alcoholic drink by opting for premium quality. Craft beer has become a very popular trend and one of the main reasons for this is the shift in consumer preference from quantity to quality, which has resulted in more domestic breweries and specialty beer stores opening up all over China. There were also cultural changes that primarily led to craft beverage consumption, and due to the rise in disposable income and the experience of different beer varieties from around the world, the market has been further stimulated. This trend is also supported by the offering of craft beer in various contemporary retail outlets and online shops that allow the fans of such products a wide access.

Evaluation of Growth Drivers in the China Craft Beer Market

Below mentioned are some prominent drivers and their influence on the market dynamics:

Drivers Primary Segments Affected Why it Matters (Evidence)
Increased Demand for Craft Beverages Craft Beer, Breweries Rising consumer preference for unique, high-quality beer options over mass-produced alternatives.
Growing Craft Beer Culture Breweries, Specialty Beer Stores Increased focus on craft beer festivals, events, and educational programs boosting consumer engagement.
Expanding Distribution Networks Craft Beer, Retail More outlets for craft beer sales, increasing product visibility and market reach.
Government Support for Local Brewers Breweries, Retail Financial incentives and policy support are fostering the growth of local craft breweries.
Rising Health Consciousness Craft Beer, Breweries Consumers opting for beverages with natural ingredients and fewer additives, which are common in craft beers.

The China Craft Beer Market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9.1% during the forecast period of 2026-2032. The growth of China Craft Beer Market largely attributes to the rising preference of Chinese consumers for craft beer. With the increase in local production, numerous craft breweries are being set up to satisfy the demand for premium, distinctive beers. This increase in local production is further supported by the cultural shift towards artisanal products, which resonate the consumer's preference for quality and uniqueness. The rise in popularity of craft beer is also backed by the creation of new distribution channels, which have made it more available to a larger audience. Altogether, these factors are paving the way for a flourishing market that holds a great potential for further growth.

Evaluation of Restraints in the China Craft Beer Market

Below mentioned are some major restraints and their influence on the market dynamics:

Restraints Primary Segments Affected What This Means (Evidence)
High Production Costs Breweries, Retail Increased costs of production reduce profit margins and limit price competitiveness.
Regulatory Challenges Breweries, Retail Adherence to strict regulations in the production of alcohol may cause a delay in the launch of the product to the market.
Limited Consumer Awareness in Rural Areas Craft Beer, Retail Lack of understanding and exposure to craft beer in smaller cities limits market expansion.
Intense Competition from Imported Beers Craft Beer, Retail Imported beers with strong brands are a major threat to the development of the local craft beer market.
Supply Chain Issues Breweries, Retail Obstacles in the supply chain of raw materials may affect the productivity of the production and distribution process.

China Craft Beer Market Challenges

China Craft Beer Market still has to overcome various challenges that potentially restrict its growth to the full extent. One of the foremost challenges that cause the local breweries to struggle is the high production cost, as these breweries find it difficult to produce premium products and at the same time, make a profit. The new breweries and innovations may be hampered by the regulatory restrictions in the production of alcohol. People, especially in rural areas, still lack information about the craft beer industry. Moreover, the industry is hotly contesting the well-established brands of imported beers and, at times, the interruptions in the supply chain may result in delays in the production process, hence the inability of the domestic craft breweries to efficiently expand their operations.

China Craft Beer Market Trends

A few noteworthy changes in the craft beer production that are shaping the future of China Craft Beer Market include:

  • Innovation in Brewing Techniques: The brewing technologies are constantly being modernised, and new methods like advanced fermentation and mixing processes are not only bringing new flavours but also improving the quality of craft beers.
  • Rise of Microbreweries: Microbreweries are gaining ground in the cities as they allow customers to buy unique products and to establish a direct relationship with them.
  • Increased Availability in Retail: Retail outlets have been enlarging their sections for craft beer to meet the demand for top-quality, locally made beverages.
  • Focus on Sustainability: As consumers are getting more and more aware of the environment, the breweries are adopting green practices, e.g., using eco-friendly packaging and cutting down waste, etc.

Investment Opportunities in the China Craft Beer Market

Some prominent investment opportunities in the China Craft Beer Market include:

  • Craft Brewery Development: Establishing new craft breweries in untapped regions and expanding the capacity of existing breweries to meet growing demand.
  • Retail Partnerships: Working together with the main retail stores and also the sales platforms on the internet in order to make use of the distribution networks and increase the customer base.
  • Craft Beer Festivals and Events: Being committed to the development of the craft beer festivals and thus allowing consumers to have the experience of the product and in that way, recognizing the brand.
  • Sustainable Brewing Practices: Buying and using eco-friendly tools and materials to meet the needs of customers who want products that are good for people and the environment.

Top 5 Leading Players in the China Craft Beer Market

Some leading players operating in the China Craft Beer Market include:

1. China Resources Snow Breweries

Company Name China Resources Snow Breweries
Established Year 1994
Headquarters Beijing, China
Official Website -

China Resources Snow Breweries is a leading beer producer in China, offering both mass-produced and craft beer varieties to meet the diverse tastes of the Chinese market, with a focus on expanding its craft beer offerings.

2. Tsingtao Brewery Group

Company Name Tsingtao Brewery Group
Established Year 1903
Headquarters Qingdao, China
Official Website Click Here

Tsingtao Brewery Group is a renowned Chinese brewery, offering a variety of craft beers alongside its traditional beers, catering to the growing demand for craft beverages in the Chinese market with a focus on innovation.

3. Yanjing Beer

Company Name Yanjing Beer
Established Year 1980
Headquarters Beijing, China
Official Website -

Yanjing Beer, a major Chinese brewery, is expanding into the craft beer market with innovative products that align with evolving consumer preferences for quality, artisanal beers, enhancing its portfolio to meet demand for distinctive flavors.

4. Hangzhou Xihu Beer

Company Name Hangzhou Xihu Beer
Established Year 2012
Headquarters Hangzhou, China
Official Website -

Hangzhou Xihu Beer specializes in premium craft beers with unique local flavors, positioning itself as a key player in the Chinese craft beer market. The company focuses on quality ingredients and innovative brewing techniques.

5. Shanghai Breweries

Company Name Shanghai Breweries
Established Year 2003
Headquarters Shanghai, China
Official Website -

Shanghai Breweries produces a range of craft beers, emphasizing the use of high-quality ingredients and innovative brewing methods to meet the increasing demand for premium craft beer in China’s growing market.

Government Regulations Introduced in the China Craft Beer Market

According to Chinese Government Data, several important regulations aimed at a flourishing craft beer industry have been implemented. For example, one such measure is the "Regulations on the Management of Alcoholic Beverages, " which, being issued in 2018, has considerably eased the process for small and independent breweries to get their license. The most significant impact of this regulation has been on local craft beer manufacturers whom it has allowed more freedom in market competition. The authorities have, furthermore, provided a range of incentives to the use of green technologies, thus, encouraging the adoption of environmentally friendly brewing methods. Support for beer festivals and international craft beer exchange events has been another major element which, in turn, has contributed to the raising of awareness and promotion of the craft beer culture. Such activities assist the sector to thrive and thus, paving the way for a more wide, scale expansion and development of the China Craft Beer Market.

Future Insights of the China Craft Beer Market

The future of the China Craft Beer Industry looks highly promising, with increasing interest in high-quality and uniquely flavored beers. The market growth has led to an increased focus on innovation, with breweries exploring new flavors, sustainable brewing methods, and production technique improvements. Premiumization trend is not only observable, but product premiumization helps to become more aligned with changes in consumer preferences. Besides that, networks for distribution expansion will enable craft beers to be more easily accessible on both domestic and international markets. Collaborations with international brewers and partly, investments from domestic players will be the major contributory factors for the market's potential for growth to even higher levels. The craft beer market in China is deeply focusing on sustainability and diversification, which makes it forecasted to continuously grow and further solidify its status as a major player in the global craft beer arena.

Market Segmentation Analysis

The report offers a comprehensive study of the subsequent market segments and their leading categories:

Ales to Dominate the Market - By Type

According to Sakshi, Senior Research Analyst at 6Wresearch, ales are expected to dominate the China Craft Beer Market Share due to the increasing demand for rich and diverse flavor profiles. Varieties such as pale ales and IPAs have risen remarkably in popularity, perfectly matching the consumer trend for intense and different flavors. The increasing craft beer culture, driven by a knowledgeable consumer base, is positioning the ales to hold a large portion of the market. While the China Craft Beer Market Growth is progressing, it is expected that ales will remain the leading category, with the breweries continuously innovating to satisfy the demand for premium and characterful beers, thus, both market share and growth will be stimulated.

Key Attractiveness of the Report

  • 10 Years of Market Numbers.
  • Historical Data Starting from 2022 to 2025.
  • Base Year: 2025.
  • Forecast Data until 2032.
  • Key Performance Indicators Impacting the Market.
  • Major Upcoming Developments and Projects.

Key Highlights of the Report:

  • China Craft Beer Market Outlook
  • Market Size of China Craft Beer Market, 2025
  • Forecast of China Craft Beer Market, 2032
  • Historical Data and Forecast of China Craft Beer Revenues & Volume for the Period 2022- 2032
  • China Craft Beer Market Trend Evolution
  • China Craft Beer Market Drivers and Challenges
  • China Craft Beer Price Trends
  • China Craft Beer Porter's Five Forces
  • China Craft Beer Industry Life Cycle
  • Historical Data and Forecast of China Craft Beer Market Revenues & Volume By Type for the Period 2022- 2032
  • Historical Data and Forecast of China Craft Beer Market Revenues & Volume By Ales for the Period 2022- 2032
  • Historical Data and Forecast of China Craft Beer Market Revenues & Volume By Pilsners and Pale Lagers for the Period 2022- 2032
  • Historical Data and Forecast of China Craft Beer Market Revenues & Volume By Specialty Beers for the Period 2022- 2032
  • Historical Data and Forecast of China Craft Beer Market Revenues & Volume By Others for the Period 2022- 2032
  • Historical Data and Forecast of China Craft Beer Market Revenues & Volume By Distibution Channel for the Period 2022- 2032
  • Historical Data and Forecast of China Craft Beer Market Revenues & Volume By On-Trade for the Period 2022- 2032
  • Historical Data and Forecast of China Craft Beer Market Revenues & Volume By Off-Trade for the Period 2022- 2032
  • China Craft Beer Import Export Trade Statistics
  • Market Opportunity Assessment By Type
  • Market Opportunity Assessment By Distibution Channel
  • China Craft Beer Top Companies Market Share
  • China Craft Beer Competitive Benchmarking By Technical and Operational Parameters
  • China Craft Beer Company Profiles
  • China Craft Beer Key Strategic Recommendations

Market Covered

The report offers a comprehensive study of the subsequent market segments:

By Type

  • Ales
  • Pilsners and Pale Lagers
  • Specialty Beers
  • Others

By Distribution Channel

  • On-Trade
  • Off-Trade

China Craft Beer Market (2026-2032): FAQs

The China Craft Beer Market is anticipated to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.1% over the period 2026, 2032.
Changing consumer preferences towards high, quality products, desire for unique flavors, and innovations in brewing methods are the factors that drive the demand for craft beer.
Being subject to a stringent set of regulations, continuing to bear high production costs, and facing the entry of large beer producers, these are the main challenges that the craft beer industry has to face.
The most significant trends are consumer fascination with the unique beer flavors, establishment of microbreweries, and a growing awareness and preference for environmentally friendly production methods.
6Wresearch actively monitors the China Craft Beer Market and publishes its comprehensive annual report, highlighting emerging trends, growth drivers, revenue analysis, and forecast outlook. Our insights help businesses to make data-backed strategic decisions with ongoing market dynamics. Our analysts track relevent industries related to the China Craft Beer Market, allowing our clients with actionable intelligence and reliable forecasts tailored to emerging regional needs.
Yes, we provide customisation as per your requirements. To learn more, feel free to contact us on sales@6wresearch.com

1 Executive Summary

2 Introduction

2.1 Key Highlights of the Report

2.2 Report Description

2.3 Market Scope & Segmentation

2.4 Research Methodology

2.5 Assumptions

3 China Craft Beer Market Overview

3.1 China Country Macro Economic Indicators

3.2 China Craft Beer Market Revenues & Volume, 2022 & 2032F

3.3 China Craft Beer Market - Industry Life Cycle

3.4 China Craft Beer Market - Porter's Five Forces

3.5 China Craft Beer Market Revenues & Volume Share, By Type, 2022 & 2032F

3.6 China Craft Beer Market Revenues & Volume Share, By Distibution Channel, 2022 & 2032F

4 China Craft Beer Market Dynamics

4.1 Impact Analysis

4.2 Market Drivers

4.2.1 Increasing disposable income in China leading to higher spending on premium products like craft beer

4.2.2 Growing popularity of craft beer culture among young urban Chinese consumers

4.2.3 Expansion of distribution channels and availability of craft beer in retail stores and e-commerce platforms

4.3 Market Restraints

4.3.1 High competition from established domestic and international beer brands

4.3.2 Stringent regulations and licensing requirements for craft beer production in China

4.3.3 Limited awareness and understanding of craft beer among mainstream consumers

5 China Craft Beer Market Trends

6 China Craft Beer Market, By Types

6.1 China Craft Beer Market, By Type

6.1.1 Overview and Analysis

6.1.2 China Craft Beer Market Revenues & Volume, By Type, 2022- 2032F

6.1.3 China Craft Beer Market Revenues & Volume, By Ales, 2022- 2032F

6.1.4 China Craft Beer Market Revenues & Volume, By Pilsners and Pale Lagers, 2022- 2032F

6.1.5 China Craft Beer Market Revenues & Volume, By Specialty Beers, 2022- 2032F

6.1.6 China Craft Beer Market Revenues & Volume, By Others, 2022- 2032F

6.2 China Craft Beer Market, By Distibution Channel

6.2.1 Overview and Analysis

6.2.2 China Craft Beer Market Revenues & Volume, By On-Trade, 2022- 2032F

6.2.3 China Craft Beer Market Revenues & Volume, By Off-Trade, 2022- 2032F

7 China Craft Beer Market Import-Export Trade Statistics

7.1 China Craft Beer Market Export to Major Countries

7.2 China Craft Beer Market Imports from Major Countries

8 China Craft Beer Market Key Performance Indicators

8.1 Number of craft beer breweries opening in China

8.2 Percentage of craft beer sales through online platforms

8.3 Growth in the variety of craft beer styles available in the Chinese market

9 China Craft Beer Market - Opportunity Assessment

9.1 China Craft Beer Market Opportunity Assessment, By Type, 2022 & 2032F

9.2 China Craft Beer Market Opportunity Assessment, By Distibution Channel, 2022 & 2032F

10 China Craft Beer Market - Competitive Landscape

10.1 China Craft Beer Market Revenue Share, By Companies, 2025

10.2 China Craft Beer Market Competitive Benchmarking, By Operating and Technical Parameters

11 Company Profiles

12 Recommendations

13 Disclaimer

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