SA ranks fifth in global alcohol consumption: 30 Liters per person

South Africa (SA) has a distinct connection with alcohol, ranking fifth globally in consumption, where the average South African drinks 30 liters per year.

The country stands as the fifth-largest consumer of alcohol worldwide, with an average South African drinker consuming 30 liters of alcohol annually, OFM reports.

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A recent report compiled by Eighty20, a Cape Town-based consultancy firm, delves into the intricate tapestry of South Africa’s alcohol consumption habits.

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SA RANKS FIFTH GLOBALLY IN ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION, AVERAGING 30 LITERS PER PERSON ANNUALLY

The findings reveal that almost half of the adult population in South Africa has consumed alcohol in the past month. Beer, a beloved beverage, remains the preferred choice for a substantial 41% of South Africans.

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In this nation, alcohol plays a central role in celebrations, be it during special events or sports gatherings. Sharing a beer during a barbecue or sipping wine at a book club is ingrained in the lifestyle.

It’s interesting to note that Africa is home to four of the top five nations with the highest per-person alcohol consumption, with three of them part of the SADC region.

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The report’s standout discovery is the noticeable difference in how men and women consume alcohol.

Specifically, 62% of men have a weekly or monthly alcohol habit, compared to just 36% of women.

When we delve into specific types of alcohol, 72% of beer drinkers are men, as are 70% of brandy enthusiasts and 66% of whisky consumers.

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PREFERENCES: 2023 VS. A DECADE AGO

In 2023, men will mostly prefer beer, gin, cider, liqueur, and boxed wine. A decade ago, whisky and brandy were also popular.

Women now share the same top choices as men, except gin has been replaced by flavored alcoholic drinks.

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A decade ago, economic reasons led women to favor champagne and bottled wine. Notably, flavored alcoholic beverages have greatly expanded and gained popularity, particularly among women.