More Dutch consumers are buying their beer across the border, according to trade association Nederlandse Brouwers. The conclusion is based on research conducted by the market research firm Circana, which found that beer sales are falling more sharply in border regions than in the rest of the Netherlands.
Beer sales in the Netherlands have been declining for several years. The brewing industry says high excise duties are one of the reasons. A crate of beer can cost several euros less in neighbouring countries, making purchases in Belgium and Germany particularly attractive for people living near the border.
The study, commissioned by the brewers, found that since the latest excise duty increase in 2024, beer sales in border regions have dropped 4 percentage points more than in other parts of the country.
Fred Teeven, chair of Nederlandse Brouwers, said he is deeply concerned by the trend, especially as another excise duty increase is expected in 2027. The former State Secretary has been lobbying against a further rise for some time.
According to Teeven, Dutch hospitality businesses, retailers, breweries, and the Treasury are all losing out due to the decline in domestic beer sales and the loss of related tax revenue.
@anp | NEWS BRAINPORT
