Consumer demand for wine in Asia will far outstrip that in western markets over the next few years, according to new research published by the organisers of Vinexpo Asia-Pacific.

Wine consumption in Asia Pacific is set to rise by 25% in volume to 1.3bn litres between 2009 and 2013, according to the figures, which were compiled by drinks research group The IWSR.

The value of wine sales in the region is set to rise from US$4.75bn in 2009 to $6.4bn by 2011, with Hong Kong increasingly acting as a gateway to growth, particularly in China.

“A revolution is starting,” said Robert Beynat, chief executive of the Vinexpo wine and spirits exhibition, which is held biannually in Bordeaux but will return for the second time to Hong Kong for Vinexpo Asia-Pacific this year.

“Asia will grow five times faster than other parts of the world,” he told a briefing with journalists in London today (21 January).

Western markets remain vastly bigger than Asia-Pacific in volume and value.

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

Per capita wine consumption in Hong Kong is the highest in Asia, at around 3.3 litres, which compares to around 23 litres per capita in the UK. The US wine market, meanwhile, is predicted to become the biggest in the world by volume within the next three years and is already worth an estimated $30bn.

Wine consumption growth in volume is expected to decline by 0.7% in Europe, however, and only rise by around 7% in the US between 2009 and 2013, said Beynat, citing IWSR projections.

The world wine market will only grow by 0.6% per year by volume up to 2013, putting Asia well ahead of the curve.

Beynat said that he expects visitor numbers for Vinexpo Asia-Pacific 2010 to be between 9,000 and 9,500, against 8,000 at the last show two years ago.

“We are full, we have already sold all of our booths,” said Beynat, although he conceded that Australia and New Zealand have not bought up “national pavilions” to promote their industries.

There is long-running unrest with Vinexpo among some in the New World, who have openly criticised the show’s setup. However, Beynat said that individual companies from all over the New World, including Australia and New Zealand, will attend this year’s show.

Vinexpo Asia-Pacific takes place in Hong Kong from 25-27 May. 

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.