At 6.0% CAGR, South & Central America Mezcal Market is Projected to be Worth US$ 161.57 Million by 2030, says Business Market Insights

According to Business Market Insights research, the South & Central America mezcal market was valued at US$ 101.08 million in 2022 and is expected to reach US$ 161.57 million by 2030, registering a CAGR of 6.0% from 2022 to 2030. Flavor innovations and rise in availability of alcoholic beverages on e-commerce platforms are among the critical factor attributed to the South & Central America mezcal market expansion.

Mezcal producers are increasingly experimenting with different agave varietals, aging methods, and flavor infusions, which cater to changing consumer preferences and provide unique selling points for their brands. One example of flavor innovation is the use of different agave varieties. While espadin agave is the most commonly used for Mezcal production, some producers explore lesser-known agave types such as tobala, tepextate, and arroqueno. Each agave variety brings its distinct flavor profile to the Mezcal, from earthy and vegetal to fruity and floral notes. This diversity allows consumers to explore various flavors within the Mezcal category, catering to various palate preferences. Another avenue of innovation involves the aging process. Mezcal aging can occur in various containers, such as oak barrels, glass, or clay pots. Producers experiment with different aging periods and container types to impart unique flavors and aromas. For instance, extended aging in oak barrels can introduce hints of vanilla and caramel, enhancing the complexity of the final product. This approach mirrors the techniques often seen in the whiskey and wine industries, offering a bridge for consumers transitioning from those spirits to Mezcal. Lastly, some Mezcal producers infuse their products with botanicals, fruits, or spices to create flavored Mezcals. These infusions can result in various profiles, from smoky and spicy to citrusy and herbal. For instance, "pechuga" Mezcals are infused with fruits, spices, and even meats during distillation, adding unique and savory flavors. These innovations align with the trend in the spirits industry, where flavored spirits and liquors have gained popularity among consumers looking for novel and enjoyable drinking experiences. Overall, the trend of flavor innovation is likely to expand the Mezcal market and make it more accessible and appealing to a broader audience.

On the contrary, stringent regulations hampers the growth of South & Central America mezcal market.

Based on product type, the South & Central America mezcal market is segmented into joven, reposado, anejo, and others. The joven segment held 69.5% share of South & Central America mezcal market in 2022, amassing US$ 70.25 million. It is projected to garner US$ 110.63 million by 2030 to expand at 5.8% CAGR during 2022-2030.

In terms of category, the South & Central America mezcal market is bifurcated into 100% agave and blend. The 100% agave segment held 80.6% share of South & Central America mezcal market in 2022, amassing US$ 81.46 million. It is projected to garner US$ 131.22 million by 2030 to expand at 6.1% CAGR during 2022-2030.

By distribution channel, the South & Central America mezcal market is segmented into supermarkets and hypermarkets, specialty stores, online retail, and others. The specialty stores segment held 62.9% share of South & Central America mezcal market in 2022, amassing US$ 63.55 million. It is projected to garner US$ 99.72 million by 2030 to expand at 5.8% CAGR during 2022-2030.

Based on country, the South & Central America mezcal market has been categorized into Brazil, Argentina, and the Rest of South & Central America. Our regional analysis states that the Rest of South & Central America captured 43.8% share of South & Central America mezcal market in 2022. It was assessed at US$ 44.27 million in 2022 and is likely to hit US$ 68.76 million by 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.7% during 2022-2030.

Key players operating in the South & Central America mezcal market are Bacardi Martini BV, Davide Campari Milano NV, Diageo Plc, Gente de Mezcal SA de CV, and Pernod Richard SA, among others.

• In September 2023, Bacardi-Martini BV took a stake in super-premium brand Ilegal Mezcal in February 2017, marking its entry into the mezcal category. Ilegal has the super-premium mezcal category at a global level. Hence, Bacardi-Martini BV acquired the Ilegal Mezcal brand to complement its portfolio.
  
  
• In August 2021, Diageo Plc announced an agreement to acquire the artisan brand Mezcal Uni