S. Korea’s Beer Imports from China Plunge by Over 40% Following Tsingtao Brewery Urination Video

South Korea witnessed a steep decline of over 40% in beer imports from China last month, according to the customs office. This drop in imports comes after a viral video emerged showing a man urinating into a tank at Tsingtao Brewery.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the volume of beer imports from China decreased by 43% compared to the previous year, totaling 2,281 tons in October. Furthermore, the value of beer purchases from China dipped by 38% to a total of US$1.93 million, as reported by the Korea Customs Service.

Concerns Raised Over the Safety of Chinese Food and Beverage Products

The video, which was released on October 19, depicts a man wearing a uniform climbing over a high wall and urinating directly into a tank at Tsingtao Brewery. KoreaBizwire reported that Tsingtao Brewery assured the public that the batch of malt involved had been sealed off from use.

BK Co., the company responsible for importing Tsingtao beer for distribution in Korea, stated that the tank featured in the video produces beer specifically for local consumption in the Chinese market. However, this incident has left consumers questioning the safety of Chinese food and beverage products.

Dramatic Surge in Beer Imports from Japan

In contrast to the sharp decline in beer imports from China, South Korea experienced a remarkable surge in beer imports from Japan. The amount of beer imported from Japan skyrocketed by 302%, reaching a total of 7,243 tons last month. Additionally, the value of these beer imports surged by 377% to US$6.14 million, as reported by customs data.

The significant decline in beer imports from China highlights the impact that the viral video had on consumer behavior. It raises concerns among South Korean consumers regarding the safety and quality of Chinese food and beverage products. Conversely, the surge in beer imports from Japan suggests a growing preference for Japanese beer. This shift in consumer behavior could have long-term implications for the beer market in South Korea.

Overall Beer Imports and Exports in South Korea

During the month of October, South Korea witnessed an increase of 9.4% in overall beer imports compared to the previous year. The total beer imports amounted to 18,753 tons, with a value of $17.34 million. Concurrently, South Korea's total beer exports expanded by 18%, reaching 7,494 tons in volume and $5.74 million in value. As a result, the country recorded a trade deficit of $11.61 million within the beer segment.

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