Readovka reported that in 2025 beer production in Russia fell by 0.8% to 901 млн дал, while retail sales dropped 15.7% to 702,6 млн дал, widening the gap between output and sales 2.6 times to almost 200 млн дал. In January‑June 2026 output fell another 2.3% year‑on‑year to 385,1 млн дал and retail sales slipped 0.2% to 290,4 млн дал.
In comments, readers say that the 16% price rise to over 190 рублей за литр made them drink less beer, opting for lower‑price substitutes or occasional purchases during sales. Others mention that they stock up when prices drop, but limited shelf life prevents large reserves. A third group notes that they now choose low‑alcohol beverages to save money.
По словам экономистов, producers increased output before excise hikes to lock in old pricing, but consumer demand fell sharply as prices rose, creating a surplus that cannot be quickly absorbed. The imbalance is expected to persist until manufacturers adjust production volumes.
In Russia the excise tax on beer is set at 22 рублей за литр (Federal Excise Duty), which directly influences retail price. The 2025 average price of 192,2 рублей за литр and 2026 forecast of 210,5 рублей за литр reflect both excise levels and inflation.
As a result, warehouses are full and storage periods are short, preventing companies from creating large safety stocks. This excess inventory pressures sellers to offer discounts, further squeezing margins and contributing to the market’s instability.
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