Beer industry adapting

Sales of Hungarian made beer increased last year. According to Imre Sívó, chairman of the Association of Breweries, the 5,6 per cent growth proves the ability of the industry to adapt to a less friendly environment. HUF 63 billion of taxes were paid by breweries last year, as taxes account for roughly fifty per cent of the consumer price of beer. Per capita annual consumption is 70 litres, with lager beers still making up more than two-thirds of total sales. Returnable bottles still dominate in stores, but cans are gaining in popularity. Beer was celebrated for the first time in Hungary, in Buda Castle on 24. June, St. Arnold’s day.