Mexican beer exports fall ahead of 2026 World Cup; tequila sales surge

Mexican beer exports experienced a notable decline of 4.2% between January and May, a trend that runs counter to expectations for increased sales during the 2026 World Cup. Despite the global sporting event, which typically boosts beverage consumption, outbound shipments of barley-based drinks fell compared to the same period last year.

In the first five months of the year, beer exports generated $2.538 billion dollars, according to the Agricultural Market Consulting Group (GCMA). This figure represents a decrease from the $2.649 billion recorded in the same period the previous year. Nevertheless, beer remained the top export product within Mexico's agro-industrial sector during this timeframe.

In contrast, tequila, Mexico's signature agave spirit, demonstrated robust growth, with exports increasing by 15.1% to reach $1.894 billion dollars in the same five-month period. Tequila, along with bovine products, were the only two agro-industrial items to register an increase. Together, these two beverages account for 19% of Mexico's total agro-industrial exports. Overall, the sector saw a modest growth of 0.6%, while imports climbed 4.9%, leading to a negative trade balance of $3.944 billion dollars.