Beer - Iraq

The Beer market in Iraq has been experiencing significant growth in recent years.

Customer preferences: Iraqi consumers have shown a growing interest in beer, with an increasing number of people incorporating it into their social gatherings and daily routines. This shift in consumer preferences can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the influence of Western culture has played a role in shaping consumer tastes and preferences, with beer being seen as a symbol of modernity and sophistication. Additionally, the hot climate in Iraq makes beer a refreshing beverage choice for many consumers.

Trends in the market: One of the key trends in the Iraqi beer market is the rising popularity of craft beer. Craft breweries have emerged in the country, offering a wide variety of unique and flavorful beers. This trend can be attributed to the growing demand for premium and high-quality products among consumers. Craft beer appeals to consumers who are looking for a more specialized and artisanal drinking experience. Another trend in the market is the increasing availability of imported beers. International beer brands have recognized the potential of the Iraqi market and have started to expand their presence in the country. This has led to a wider variety of beer options for consumers, catering to different tastes and preferences. The availability of imported beers has also contributed to the growth of the beer market in Iraq, as consumers are now exposed to a greater range of flavors and styles.

Local special circumstances: The beer market in Iraq is also influenced by local cultural and religious factors. The majority of the population in Iraq follows Islam, which prohibits the consumption of alcohol. However, there is a significant non-Muslim population in the country, as well as a growing number of expatriates and tourists. This has created a niche market for beer, primarily catering to these non-Muslim consumers. The availability of alcohol is restricted in certain areas and establishments, but there are still plenty of venues where beer can be legally consumed.

Underlying macroeconomic factors: The growth of the beer market in Iraq can also be attributed to favorable macroeconomic conditions. The country has experienced relative stability in recent years, with improvements in security and infrastructure. This has led to an increase in foreign investment and economic growth, resulting in higher disposable incomes for consumers. As a result, consumers have more purchasing power to spend on discretionary items such as beer. In conclusion, the Beer market in Iraq is developing due to changing customer preferences, including a growing interest in craft beer and the availability of imported brands. Local special circumstances, such as the presence of a non-Muslim population, also contribute to the growth of the market. Favorable macroeconomic conditions, including stability and economic growth, further support the development of the beer market in Iraq.

Data coverage:
The data encompasses B2C enterprises. The at-home market covers retail sales via super- and hypermarkets, eCommerce, convenience stores, or similar sales channels. The out-of-home data encompasses all sales to hotels, restaurants, catering, cafés, bars, and similar hospitality service establishments. Combined numbers encompass both the at-home market and the out-of-home market. Both the at-home and the out-of-home market are valued at retail selling prices including all sales and consumption taxes.

Modeling approach:
Market sizes are determined through a Top-Down approach, building on specific predefined factors for each market segment. As a basis for evaluating markets, we use resources from the Statista platform as well as in-house market research, national statistical offices, international institutions, trade associations, companies, the trade press, and the experience of our analysts. In addition, we use relevant key market indicators and data from country-specific associations, such as GDP, consumer spending (e.g. consumer spending on alcoholic beverages, consumer spending at Hotels, Restaurants etc.), and price level index. This data helps us estimate the market size for each country individually.

Forecasts:
In our forecasts, we apply diverse forecasting techniques. The selection of forecasting techniques is based on the behavior of the relevant market. For example, the exponential trend smoothing is well suited for forecasting the Alcoholic Drinks market with a projected steady growth. The main drivers are GDP per capita and consumer spending per capita.

Additional notes:
The data is modeled using current exchange rates. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war are considered at a country-specific level.