Fall 2025 Craft Beer Market Outlook
As fall arrives, the craft beer and ready-to-drink (RTD) landscape across Asia is evolving quickly. At PACRIM Distributors, we keep a close eye on consumer trends, logistics challenges, and product demand so that our brewery partners and retail buyers can make informed decisions. Here’s what we’re seeing in the market this season.
Shifting Consumer Preferences
Across Japan, Singapore, and Taiwan, drinkers are showing a strong appetite for variety packs. Mixed 12-packs are leading sales thanks to their versatility for gatherings and gift-giving during the upcoming holiday season.
Another shift is toward low-ABV and sessionable options. In Taiwan and Hong Kong especially, lighter beers and ciders are outperforming higher-alcohol formats. Retailers are responding by expanding shelf space for approachable, everyday drinking options.
Logistics Watch
On the logistics side, container availability has improved compared to 2024, but rates into Southeast Asia remain volatile. The most competitive pricing is being secured by buyers booking 6–8 weeks in advance.
Japan and Taiwan, in particular, are experiencing port congestion ahead of Q4 retail builds. To stay ahead, major retailers are ordering earlier than usual to ensure product arrives on time for the critical holiday window.
Standout Categories
Several categories are showing especially strong momentum this fall:
Cider – Container-sized orders are continuing in Japan and Taiwan, confirming cider as a mainstay of the premium beverage mix.
Vodka iced teas – Demand is accelerating in Japan, with RTDs carving out a bigger share of shelf space.
Canadian craft beer – Specialty retailers in Singapore are bringing in more Canadian craft beer, with variety packs and limited-edition releases gaining traction.
Seasonal Recommendations
For Q4 and early 2026, we recommend focusing on shareable and giftable formats. Variety packs, 500ml ciders, and premium RTDs are all positioned to perform well in holiday and New Year sales programs.
And just in time for the season, pumpkin beers and freshly dry-hopped brews are now available through PACRIM. These seasonal offerings are ideal to round out a portfolio and capture fall consumer interest.
Final Thoughts
The fall season is shaping up to be a dynamic one for craft beer and RTDs across Asia. From evolving consumer tastes to shifting logistics realities, the opportunity for growth is clear for those who plan ahead.
At PACRIM Distributors, our role is to make exporting Canadian craft beverages simple and scalable. We work with award-winning breweries to connect their products with retailers and distributors in 21 global markets.
If you’re planning Q4 or early 2026 programs and want to explore how PACRIM can support your lineup, we’d be glad to connect.