Brussels was buzzing at the 25th annual beer festival in its Grand Place, where 570 beers from 57 Belgian brewers poured. But behind the cheers lies a bitter reality for Belgium’s breweries.
Today, U.S. imports face a 15% tariff—and on top of that, export taxes on aluminum cans are rolling out extra costs. Brewers say these measures are pushing export prices up and squeezing profitability.
“Of course there will come price increases to be affordable still as a brewery to export to the United States. But then it’s to be creative and see to which price point a consumer of the United States will buy the Belgian beer,” said Michiel Clyncke, Co-CEO of Kasteel Brewery Vanhonsebrouck.
Despite these headwinds, European beer exports to the U.S. topped nearly $4 billion in 2024. Yet data also points to a slump at home: domestic demand in Belgium is losing its fizz.
Impact and Outlook
- Price pressures: 15% U.S. duty plus can taxes raise export costs.
- Market shift: Brewers must balance creative pricing with American consumers’ willingness to pay.
- Domestic slump: Falling local demand means brewers rely even more on exports.
For young global beer fans, entrepreneurs, and travelers eyeing sustainable brews, Belgium’s brewing scene remains a story of resilience—and the next round is already pouring.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
