Small independent U.S. craft brewers are exporting all over the world, from Sweden to Japan.
The tables in the global beer garden have turned: An industry which started in the U.S.A three decades ago by emulating styles brewed in other countries has matured into a trend-setter in its own right which exports its ideas and products all over the world.
Exports of U.S. craft beer are on the rise, but several factors are limiting growth, including shipping and storage constraints which compromise beer quality and production limitations from U.S. breweries struggling to meet consumer demand at home.
U.S. craft beer export volume grew 49 percent in 2013, to 282,526 barrels and an estimated $73 million, due in part to new distribution agreements in Europe and Asia, according to the Brewers Association. One barrel of beer holds 31 gallons.