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Irish gin exports up by 211%

The value of Irish gin exports increased by 211% to €6.04 million (US$6.8m) in 2018, boosted by the UK, South Africa, Italy and Germany.

The value of Irish gin exports grew by 211% last year

Data from the Central Statistics Office, cited by the Alcohol Beverage Federation of Ireland (ABFI), showed that Ireland’s alcoholic drinks exports increased by 8% to €1.35 billion (US$1.53bn) in 2018, up from €1.25bn (US$1.41bn) in 2017.

The value of gin exports were up from €1.9 million (US$2.15m) in 2017.

The value of Irish whiskey exports increased by 13% to €654m (US$740m) in 2018, up from €578.78m (US$655m) in 2017, bolstered by the US, Russia (via Latvia), Germany, Australia and South Africa.

According to the Irish Whiskey Association, the US remains the largest market for Irish whiskey accounting for 43% of all sales, with Canada, Australia and Central/Eastern Europe predicted to be the key growth region for the category in 2019 and coming years.

In January 2018, three Irish gin producers were listed for sale by LCBO, which retails and distributes alcoholic beverages in Ontario, Canada. The ABFI said that as a result the Irish gin category “will make a bigger splash in the Canadian market” this year.

The value of beer exports from Ireland increased by 1.2% to €279m (US$315m) in 2018.

Patricia Callan, director of the ABFI, said: “Ireland’s drinks industry is backed by centuries of respected tradition. From our rich history in brewing, to the tradition of whiskey distilling, the products made by the industry have deep roots in Ireland, setting them apart on the global stage.

“It’s also an industry that continues to grow, invest and innovate and is one of the country’s most exciting and dynamic sectors. These factors are helping to drive exports in both established and emerging markets.

“With breweries and distilleries opening around the country, this growth is also benefiting the regional spread of tourism.”

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