Global tequila trends: Opportunities for private brands in the bulk market

Bulk tequila is conquering new markets beyond Mexico. With growing demand in the United States, Europe, and Asia, unique opportunities are emerging for private tequila brands looking to establish themselves in the premium spirits industry.

Bulk tequila is driving global growth, with demand surging in the U.S., Europe, and Asia, creating unique opportunities for private brands in the premium spirits industry.

There is no doubt, mexican tequila is undoubtedly one of the most iconic beverages.

Not only as bottled tequila but also in bulk format, ideal for companies developing private labels or looking to include it in premium beverage portfolios.

In this blog, we will explore the main international trends, opportunities for private tequila brands, and key strategies to meet export requirements and stand out in an increasingly competitive global market.

dialce distilleries

Dialce provides strategic support for private label brands:

  1. Proven global export expertise
    With solid experience in international shipments, Dialce streamlines logistics and minimizes customs and delivery risks.
  2. Scalable and flexible production
    From small batches for emerging brands to large orders for international chains, Dialce adapts to the demands of each market.
  3. Strategic support for private label brands
    More than a supplier, Dialce partners with brands by offering tailored guidance and solutions, helping them stand out in competitive segments.

Why the U.S. is the #1 opportunity for tequila brands

The U.S. tequila market is experiencing remarkable growth, particularly in the premium category, where demand for authentic, high-quality products continues to rise.

 Its versatility in cocktails has made tequila a favorite choice for consumers seeking unique experiences.

Between 2019 and 2023, mexican tequila consumption in United States increased from 20 million to over 30 million 9-liter cases, according to industry data. 

This growth demonstrates remains a strategic opportunity for brands looking to establish or expand their presence.

According to business consultancy IMARC Group, the United States tequila market is expected to grow at an annual rate of 4.36% from 2025 to 2033, reaching a value of $13.68 billion by 2033. 

These figures highlight the immense potential for private label tequila brands that can anticipate demand and deliver consistent quality.

States with the highest demand include California, Texas, Florida, Illinois, and Arizona, where tequila consumption continues to rise.

Opportunities exist in supermarkets, bars, and retail chains. These sectors are open to private tequila brands, provided they offer authenticity and certifications that support the origin.

In this context, partnering with a certified bulk tequila supplier like Dialce becomes a strategic advantage. 

From small batches for emerging brands to large orders for international chains, Dialce adapts to the demands of each market, ensuring quality, consistency, and compliance with international regulations.

The question is: Is your brand ready to seize this historic opportunity and establish itself in the world’s largest tequila market?

Why the U.S. Market is a Must for Your Private Tequila Brand

  • It is the largest tequila consumer in the world
  • Potential for growth and profitability
  • Diversify your market and avoid relying solely on the domestic market
  • Global branding and positioning
  • Opportunities across various sales channels
  • Ignoring the U.S. market would mean losing access to the largest tequila market in the world, where you not only sell volume but also position your brand as an international benchmark of quality

Europe’s Growing Cocktail Culture and Premium Tequila Demand

In the European Union, the second most important market for Mexican tequila, consumer preference has been steadily growing.

In this continent, tequila enjoys one of the highest levels of legal protection, on par with Cognac and Scotch Whisky, thanks to a mutual recognition agreement signed between the Mexican government and the European Union in 1997.

According to the European representative of the Tequila Regulatory Council (CRT), as of the end of 2023, exports to Europe reached 34.8 million liters.

The main countries importing tequila directly from Mexico are:

  • Spain: 8.3 million liters
  • Germany: 8.05 million liters
  • France: 6.2 million liters
  • Italy: 4.3 million liters

The United Kingdom is one of Europe’s most dynamic tequila markets, with average exports of 5.4 million litersannually. 

Tequila is rapidly becoming the foundation for signature cocktails, boosting demand for smooth, premium tequilas with unique flavor profiles that appeal to mixology enthusiasts.

European importers are increasingly seeking brands with compelling storytelling, distinctive packaging, and full production traceability, making it clear that success in these markets requires more than just great taste it’s about delivering a premium, memorable experience.

For tequila brands looking to expand internationally, now is the time to leverage these opportunities, strengthen your brand presence, and capture growth in the UK and wider European market. 

Partner with trusted suppliers and focus on quality, authenticity, and innovation to stand out in this thriving export landscape.

Top Reasons to Expand Your Private Tequila Brand into Europe

  • Growing interest in premium and artisanal beverages
  • Market with growth potential
  • International branding and prestige
  • Revenue diversification
  • Presence in bars, restaurants, gourmet stores, and specialized e-commerce

Asia: The Emerging Luxury Market for Premium Tequila

In international marketing strategies, Asia is emerging as a key growth market.

Countries like China, Japan, and South Korea are beginning to discover tequila, associating it with exclusive and luxury products.

The current opportunity lies in consumer education, explaining what makes Mexican tequila unique compared to other spirits like whisky or sake.

Added value can come from limited and special editions, origin certifications, and cultural Mexican experiences, which strengthen acceptance of bulk tequila bottled locally.

In recent years, Japan has become the leading tequila importer in Asia, with import volumes growing over 50% between 2022 and 2023, reaching 4 million liters in 2024.

This growth is driven by a more sophisticated demand and greater availability of the product through various distribution channels.

Japanese consumers have evolved from occasional tequila consumption in cocktails to a deeper appreciation of the spirit. Increasingly, people prefer reposado and añejo tequilas, valued for their smooth taste and authenticity.

This opens the door for artisanal and premium brands seeking to enter the market with a differentiated value proposition.

Mexican tequila in Japan is distributed primarily through specialty liquor stores, supermarkets, retail chains, and high-end bars and restaurants.

For entrepreneurs and established companies alike, bulk tequila is no longer just an input, it’s the gateway to building a global premium brand.

premium 100 agave tequila

Why Asia should be your next key tequila export market?

  • Market still underdeveloped, with room for growth
  • Recognition of tequila’s denomination of origin
  • Some countries, like Japan, maintain trade agreements with Mexico eliminating tariffs
  • No additional sanitary or regulatory restrictions, facilitating market entry
  • Consumers increasingly willing to pay for quality and authenticity, benefiting premium tequila brands

Bulk tequila is shifting from a niche market to an international growth engine, driven by consumers seeking authenticity, quality, and new experiences.

Private brands now have the opportunity to enter key international markets, provided they adapt to regulatory requirements and consumption trends.

In a world where mexican tequila increasingly symbolizes luxury and Mexican identity, choosing a reliable bulk tequila supplier is the first step to turning this ancestral drink into a global business.

Partner with Dialce today and take your private tequila brand to global markets with confidence.

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