Lower raw materials costs have helped China’s Tsingtao Brewery to report a leap in profits for 2009.

Tsingtao said today (9 April) that net profits attributable to equity shareholders rose by 79% for the 12 months to the end of December, to CNY1.25bn (US$183m) from CNY699.5m in 2008.

“The overall profitability of the beer industry obtained a great improvement which was attributable to the significant drop of the price of imported barley, and that the price of other raw materials continued to be kept at a low level,” the company said.

Group net sales in the year rose by 12.5% to CNY17.76bn, against CNY15.78bn in 2008, said the firm, which is 20%-owned by Japan’s Asahi Breweries.

Price rises and lower costs helped the brewer to expand gross margins by 2.6% during the year.

Group volume sales rose by 10% to 59m hectolitres (hl), twice as fast as the market, which increased by 5% to 429mhl. Sales for the Tsingtao brand jumped by 22% to 29.5mhl for the year.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

Tsingtao said that competition in China became “extraordinarily severe” in 2009 as beer market volume growth slowed.

The firm said it expects to increase volume sales in 2010 at 2% ahead of the market, and will focus on cost cutting and market share gains in the premium sector.  

Commenting on the economic outlook more broadly, Tsingtao said: “The domestic consumption market will make further recovery, which will be helpful to the continuous and steady growth of the beer industry.”

Subscribe to Just Drinks for just £1 for 1 month

Stay ahead with unbiased news, expert commentary, and in-depth features on global topics.

As a trusted provider of data and insights, Just Drinks collaborates closely with industry leaders and professionals to offer unique thought leadership and analysis. Gain a deeper understanding of the drinks industry’s trajectory and the priorities shaping the profession.

What’s included in your subscription:
  • Personalized Access: Secure login to Just Drinks
  • Industry News & Expert Commentary: Timely updates and exclusive C-level interviews.
  • Case Studies & Deep Dives: Real-world applications and in-depth analyses.
  • Exclusive Subscriber Newsletter: Weekly top features, plus a new thematic report and webinar.

Ready to stay informed?

Subscribe to unlock exclusive content.

Already a subscriber? Sign in to access your account.

Pleasecomplete this form to request more information, and a representative will be in touch shortly.

Just Drinks Excellence Awards - Have you nominated?

Nominations are now open for the prestigious Just Drinks Excellence Awards - one of the industry's most recognised programmes celebrating innovation, leadership, and impact. This is your chance to showcase your achievements, highlight industry advancements, and gain global recognition. Don't miss the opportunity to be honoured among the best - submit your nomination today!

Nominate Now