Areas of focus
Our areas of focus
The four pillars that guide the work of Cerveceros Latinoamericanos and its members in the region.
Four pillars
Go straight to a pillar
For its contribution to moderation, stronger economies and thriving communities across the region.
01 · Moderation
Beer, an ally of moderation
Beer is a lower-alcohol option, and the region’s brewers invest in lower-alcohol and alcohol-free options.
Key ideas
Policies toward lower strength
Steering consumption toward lower-strength drinks is an evidence-based way to improve public health.
Substitution reduces harm
Choosing lower-strength drinks, such as beer, instead of high-strength drinks can reduce harm and per-capita alcohol consumption.
A shared opportunity
Investment in lower-strength and alcohol-free beers makes the industry an ally of moderation.
Lower-alcohol and alcohol-free options
Latin America leads the growth of alcohol-free beer
The evidence
“The theory of change, that is, that substituting higher-strength products with alcohol-free and lower-strength options leads to lower alcohol consumption, is confirmed by household purchase data.”
Peter Anderson and Daša Kokole, researchers.
Innovation across the region
Decades of innovation in lower-alcohol and alcohol-free beer
Brewers across the region are committed to expanding the availability of lower-alcohol and alcohol-free options. From Mexico to Argentina, and across the Caribbean, member companies market alcohol-free beers (up to 0.5% ABV) and lower-alcohol beers (up to 4.0% ABV) in every market where they operate, so that every adult who chooses to take part can do so according to their preferences.
Some people should not consume beer or other beverages containing alcohol.
02 · Economy
A local product, from the field to the bar
Beer is a local product. In Latin America and the Caribbean its value chain contributes 1.3% of regional GDP and helps generate 3.9 million jobs. Because beer is brewed and consumed locally, most of its footprint in GDP, employment and tax revenue stays in the economy where it is produced.
Key ideas
A local product
Brewed and consumed in each country, with inputs that are mostly sourced locally or in neighbouring countries.
Investment in what is local
Brewers invest in local sectors, from agriculture to neighbourhood shops and hospitality, and generate employment and sustainable economic development.
An engine of national economies
The brewing sector contributes significantly to the economy of every country where it operates.
Value chain
From the field to the bar
Most inputs are sourced locally or in neighbouring countries. Beer is 90% water: bulky, heavy, perishable and fragile, so it is brewed close to where it is enjoyed.
Agriculture
Barley, hops and yeast.
Malting
Barley becomes malt.
Brewing
Raw materials become beer.
Packaging
Packed for distribution.
Distribution
Beer reaches the customer.
Shops, bars and restaurants
Shops, bars, restaurants and clubs.
Consumer
Sale to the adult consumer.
How the impact is distributed
3.9 million jobs and USD 88.7 billion of GDP
03 · Society
Rituals that bring the region together
From a match with friends to a sunset by the sea, beer has been at the centre of the social rituals that create shared experiences and strengthen social bonds.
Key ideas
Rituals that unite
For thousands of years, beer has accompanied the moments that create shared experiences and strengthen social bonds.
Local from start to finish
Brewed with local ingredients and methods, by brewers who invest in the culture and traditions of each community.
More inclusive occasions
With more lower-strength and alcohol-free options, everyone can be part of the moment: a beer, with or without alcohol.
Investment in culture and community
Examples from our region
300 ha · CCN · Nicaragua
Of tropical forest conserved with 10 local farms through the Water Neutral Programme (2024).
70% · HEINEKEN · México
Of the barley used in 2024 was of Mexican origin; the goal is for 100% to come from sustainable sources by 2030.
The evidence
More than 170 years of brewing tradition in 24 countries
The breweries that make up the network have been part of their countries for generations, from the first brewhouses of the 19th century to the companies founded this decade.
Some people should not consume beer or other beverages containing alcohol.
04 · Sustainability
Commitments that turn into action
The member companies of Cerveceros Latinoamericanos have made sustainability commitments across their value chain. Through the Sustainability Committee, the association promotes the exchange of best practices and common industry positions in the region.
Reports from our members
Sustainability reports
Each logo links to the company’s most recent sustainability report or commitment page.
