As an American beer drinker, when you think of European beers, Germany is probably first country to come to mind. Of course, Germany is well-known for its annual Oktoberfest party, big beer steins, and influence on American beers. But the United Kingdom has had a major influence as well, thanks to the ever rising popularity of the India pale ale. And what about the profusion of Irish pubs and Guinness? If you think about it, it would be hard to guess what country in Europe actually produces the most beer.

Food Ingredients First reported that The Brewers of Europe trade association released data report from last year. Seven nations were highlighted as top beer producers.

Unsurprisingly, Germany led the list, producing 9.3 billion liters of beer in 2017 — accounting for 23 percent of Europe’s beer production. The United Kingdom and Poland tied for second place with production at 4 billion liters. Spain came in fourth with 3.8 billion liters or 9 percent, and despite its diminutive size, the Netherlands came in fifth by producing 2.4 billion liters or 6 percent. France and Belgium rounded out the list with 2.1 billion liters (5 percent) and 2 billion liters (5 percent) respectively.

Overall, Europe produced 39.6 billion liters of beer in 2017, and 8.7 billion liters of that amount was shipped abroad. Top destinations for European brews include the US, China, and Canada, but exports now reach 123 countries around the world.

The US is, unsurprisingly, the leading importer of EU beers (1.1 billion liters of beer imported or 31 percent of all EU-exported beer). By comparison, China was the second leading importer with only 20 million liters.

Much like the number of craft breweries in the United States is growing, so too is the industry in European countries. The report states that number of active breweries increased by about 1,000 last year to reach almost 9,500. And on a longer timeline, over the past decade, that number has increased by about 6,000 breweries. So it’s not just a trend in your hometown — it’s basically the trend in every neighborhood in the Western world.


Also see, Bottled or canned? One study puts the great beer debate to rest. 

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Meghan is a full-time writer exploring the fun facts behind food. She lives a healthy lifestyle but lives for breakfast, dessert and anything with marinara. She’s thrown away just as many meals as she’s proud of.