In 2023, alcohol consumption patterns across Southeast Asia reveal a wide spectrum of drinking habits, with some countries significantly outpacing others in per capita consumption of pure alcohol. According to rankings from Statista, Laos leads the region with the highest per capita alcohol consumption, with each individual consuming an average of 11.71 liters of pure alcohol annually. This figure underscores the prominence of alcohol in Laotian social life and culture, particularly through the widespread use of Lao-Lao, a traditional rice whiskey that is a staple at many celebrations and gatherings.
Viet Nam follows closely behind, with an average of 9.72 liters of pure alcohol consumed per capita, making it the second-highest in the region. Alcohol consumption is also embedded in Vietnamese culture, often associated with communal dining and socializing, where local beer brands and rice wines are popular choices. Cambodia ranks third in the region with 9.38 liters per capita, reflecting the strong presence of beer in social events and traditional ceremonies.
Thailand, known for its bustling nightlife and tourist destinations, holds the fourth position with an average consumption of 7.79 liters per capita. This is followed by the Philippines, where the per capita consumption stands at 6.26 liters. Both countries have well-established alcohol industries, with local beers, spirits, and wines contributing to the social fabric.
Myanmar, where alcohol consumption is also tied to cultural events and social activities, ranks sixth in the region. However, the numbers drop significantly as we move down the list. Singapore, a country with a more restrained drinking culture, registers an average per capita consumption of 1.87 liters, while Malaysia, where religious and cultural factors play a key role in limiting alcohol use, shows a much lower consumption rate of 0.81 liters per capita.
At the bottom end of the scale, Brunei Darussalam and Timor-Leste report very low levels of alcohol consumption, with 0.43 liters and 0.39 liters per capita, respectively. These figures are reflective of the predominantly Muslim population in Brunei Darussalam, where alcohol is largely prohibited, and the relatively modest drinking culture in Timor-Leste.
Indonesia, the largest country in Southeast Asia by population, registers the lowest alcohol consumption per capita in the region at just 0.11 liters. Similar to Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia's low consumption rate is heavily influenced by religious factors, as the country has a significant Muslim majority that adheres to Islamic prohibitions on alcohol consumption.
These rankings highlight the vast differences in alcohol consumption across Southeast Asia, shaped by various cultural, religious, and socio-economic factors. While some countries have embraced alcohol as a significant part of their social customs, others maintain strict regulations and cultural norms that limit its consumption.
