A firm, Beer Sectoral Group (BSG), a sub-sectoral group under the Food, Beverage and Tobacco Sector, has restated its commitment to responsible consumption, sustainability, and partnership with the government.
Speaking during a visit to the Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole, the group stressed its role in job creation, agricultural development, and manufacturing, making the industry a contributor to the nation’s economy. Its Chairman/CEO of Int’l Breweries Plc., Carlos Coutino, further reaffirmed the industry’s commitment to responsible growth and policy compliance.
The meeting featured a technical presentation by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), which provided compelling data and projections to highlight implications of the current excise regime. Findings from the presentation showed a sharp decline in industry revenues by nearly 30 percent, largely driven by inflation and foreign exchange instability.
It also underscored scale of the industry’s contributions, including its support of over 30,000 jobs and the stimulation of the local agricultural value chain through the sourcing of approximately 300 metric tonnes of grains.
The report flagged affordability challenges, revealing that the average Nigerian now needs to work up to three hours to afford a bottle of beer. In addition, there were strong indications that the current tax approach could result in over ₦425b in industry losses and a significant shortfall in government revenue projections
The strategic engagement was part of the sector’s commitment to deepening collaboration with the government and seeking alignment on policy matters that affect the sustainability of the beer industry.
The report also flagged public health risks, warning that high beer prices could unintentionally push consumers toward unsafe, unregulated alternatives.
The delegation appealed for a review of the current Ad Valorem model and proposed more predictable, inflation-adjusted alternatives aimed at ensuring long-term industry viability, consumer protection, and continued government revenue.
Responding, Oduwole, commended the group for its data-driven approach and its collaborative engagement style. She acknowledged the challenges presented and assured the delegation of the Ministry’s openness to stakeholder input in shaping reforms that are equitable, forward-looking, and in the national interest.
