Heineken has announced a significant investment of NT$13.5 billion (approximately US$414.6 million) into its brewery in Taiwan’s Pingtung County over the next five years, marking a strategic shift from sales-only operations to full-scale manufacturing in the region.
The Dutch brewing giant made the announcement during a ceremony at its Pingtung brewery, with Heineken Taiwan managing director Jeff Wu stating that the company aims to use the facility to produce “made in Taiwan” beers for export to neighbouring East Asian markets. Wu highlighted the growing global appreciation for Taiwanese products and suggested the brewery could help raise the country’s profile on the international stage.
Strategic site for East Asia
Heineken took majority ownership and management rights of the Long Chuan Zuan Co. brewery in Neipu Township back in 2022. Commercial production began in early 2024, positioning the Pingtung facility as a key hub for regional distribution. Speaking at the same event, Heineken Taiwan vice president William Lai noted that Taiwan is now the company’s second-largest export market globally.
Lai praised the brewery’s geographic location and infrastructure as “well-positioned” for East Asian supply routes and emphasized the investment’s benefits to local agriculture. “By sourcing brewing barley locally, we aim to contribute to the development of Taiwan’s agricultural sector while enhancing the reputation of Pingtung’s brewing capabilities,” he said.
A push toward net-zero brewing by 2030
In addition to its economic goals, Heineken also outlined an ambitious sustainability roadmap. Wu and Lai confirmed the company’s target to make the Taiwanese brewery “net zero” by 2030. This aligns with Heineken’s global efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and foster more sustainable brewing practices across its international sites.
Lai pointed to Pingtung’s fertile soil and experienced farming community as a valuable asset in achieving both quality and environmental goals. By investing in local supply chains and reducing transportation needs, the brewery hopes to cut emissions and increase efficiency.
Strong start to 2024 for Heineken
The announcement follows a positive first-quarter performance for Heineken globally. The company reported revenues of €8.2 billion for Q1 2024, marking a 7.2% year-on-year increase. This included strong results for both its flagship Heineken lager and its fast-growing 0.0% alcohol-free variant, which have been driving renewed demand following the price pressures of 2023.
The Pingtung investment signals Heineken’s confidence in Taiwan as a long-term production base and its intent to further embed itself in the region's beverage industry. With a focus on quality, sustainability, and local collaboration, the brewery’s development looks set to become a showcase for Heineken’s next generation of international brewing facilities.