Average Spirits Consumption Per Capita 2010
Average spirits consumption per capita highlights drinking habits in different countries, measured in liters annually.
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Complete Data Rankings
Rank | Actions | ||
|---|---|---|---|
1 | Belarus | 5.75 liters | |
2 | Saint Lucia | 5.672 liters | |
3 | Estonia | 5.64 liters | |
4 | Dominica | 5.464 liters | |
5 | Russia | 5.41 liters | |
6 | Kyrgyzstan | 5.1 liters | |
7 | Mongolia | 4.99 liters | |
8 | Mauritius | 4.826 liters | |
9 | Lithuania | 4.63 liters | |
10 | Slovakia | 4.61 liters | |
11 | Bulgaria | 4.554 liters | |
12 | Thailand | 4.22 liters | |
13 | Saint Vincent and the Grenadines | 4.177 liters | |
14 | Barbados | 4.093 liters | |
15 | Saint Kitts and Nevis | 4.081 liters | |
16 | Brazil | 4.04 liters | |
17 | Ukraine | 3.88 liters | |
18 | Poland | 3.77 liters | |
19 | Laos | 3.688 liters | |
20 | Latvia | 3.64 liters | |
21 | Hungary | 3.63 liters | |
22 | Philippines | 3.623 liters | |
23 | Grenada | 3.53 liters | |
24 | Armenia | 3.488 liters | |
25 | North Korea | 3.393 liters | |
26 | Guyana | 3.272 liters | |
27 | Czech Republic | 3.27 liters | |
28 | Georgia | 3.267 liters | |
29 | China | 3.24 liters | |
30 | Antigua and Barbuda | 3.188 liters | |
31 | Suriname | 2.842 liters | |
32 | Bahamas | 2.809 liters | |
33 | United States | 2.8 liters | |
34 | France | 2.65 liters | |
35 | Zimbabwe | 2.61 liters | |
36 | Liberia | 2.603 liters | |
37 | Serbia | 2.596 liters | |
38 | Trinidad and Tobago | 2.593 liters | |
39 | Andorra | 2.59 liters | |
40 | India | 2.553 liters | |
41 | Spain | 2.53 liters | |
42 | Nauru | 2.46 liters | |
43 | Cuba | 2.424 liters | |
44 | Peru | 2.415 liters | |
45 | Seychelles | 2.379 liters | |
46 | Luxembourg | 2.365 liters | |
47 | Montenegro | 2.326 liters | |
48 | Angola | 2.301 liters | |
49 | United Kingdom | 2.22 liters | |
50 | Ireland | 2.19 liters | |
51 | Haiti | 2.167 liters | |
52 | United Arab Emirates | 2.122 liters | |
53 | Chile | 2.1 liters | |
54 | Canada | 2.08 liters | |
55 | Germany | 2.08 liters | |
56 | Romania | 2.02 liters | |
57 | Nicaragua | 2.018 liters | |
58 | Niue | 1.983 liters | |
59 | Paraguay | 1.977 liters | |
60 | Sri Lanka | 1.97 liters | |
61 | Albania | 1.96 liters | |
62 | Republic of Moldova | 1.9 liters | |
63 | Dominican Republic | 1.89 liters | |
64 | Greece | 1.864 liters | |
65 | Cyprus | 1.831 liters | |
66 | Kazakhstan | 1.83 liters | |
67 | Panama | 1.811 liters | |
68 | Austria | 1.76 liters | |
69 | Belize | 1.744 liters | |
70 | Jamaica | 1.74 liters | |
71 | Venezuela | 1.642 liters | |
72 | Malta | 1.627 liters | |
73 | Honduras | 1.565 liters | |
74 | Gabon | 1.556 liters | |
75 | New Zealand | 1.54 liters | |
76 | Netherlands | 1.53 liters | |
77 | Switzerland | 1.51 liters | |
78 | Equatorial Guinea | 1.504 liters | |
79 | Finland | 1.5 liters | |
80 | Belgium | 1.48 liters | |
81 | Uzbekistan | 1.46 liters | |
82 | Denmark | 1.44 liters | |
83 | Botswana | 1.423 liters | |
84 | Portugal | 1.41 liters | |
85 | Bahrain | 1.408 liters | |
86 | Australia | 1.35 liters | |
87 | El Salvador | 1.341 liters | |
88 | Turkmenistan | 1.279 liters | |
89 | Israel | 1.265 liters | |
90 | Norway | 1.25 liters | |
91 | South Africa | 1.25 liters | |
92 | Ecuador | 1.217 liters | |
93 | Iceland | 1.21 liters | |
94 | Croatia | 1.197 liters | |
95 | Guatemala | 1.157 liters | |
96 | Sweden | 1.11 liters | |
97 | Cabo Verde | 0.972 liters | |
98 | Slovenia | 0.9 liters | |
99 | Nepal | 0.89 liters | |
100 | North Macedonia | 0.86 liters | |
101 | Italy | 0.84 liters | |
102 | Uruguay | 0.84 liters | |
103 | Myanmar | 0.814 liters | |
104 | Vanuatu | 0.802 liters | |
105 | Côte d'Ivoire | 0.795 liters | |
106 | Lebanon | 0.758 liters | |
107 | Qatar | 0.726 liters | |
108 | Maldives | 0.693 liters | |
109 | Namibia | 0.658 liters | |
110 | Fiji | 0.647 liters | |
111 | Syrian Arab Republic | 0.615 liters | |
112 | Uganda | 0.604 liters | |
113 | Bosnia and Herzegovina | 0.59 liters | |
114 | Micronesia (Fed. States of) | 0.59 liters | |
115 | Lesotho | 0.588 liters | |
116 | Bolivia | 0.551 liters | |
117 | Costa Rica | 0.55 liters | |
118 | Kenya | 0.543 liters | |
119 | Guinea-Bissau | 0.537 liters | |
120 | Azerbaijan | 0.5 liters | |
121 | Turkey | 0.5 liters | |
122 | Colombia | 0.495 liters | |
123 | Japan | 0.48 liters | |
124 | Argentina | 0.45 liters | |
125 | Congo | 0.413 liters | |
126 | South Korea | 0.4 liters | |
127 | Iraq | 0.387 liters | |
128 | Cambodia | 0.382 liters | |
129 | Tanzania | 0.374 liters | |
130 | Tajikistan | 0.371 liters | |
131 | Jordan | 0.371 liters | |
132 | Ghana | 0.362 liters | |
133 | Tuvalu | 0.35 liters | |
134 | Samoa | 0.309 liters | |
135 | Malawi | 0.306 liters | |
136 | Oman | 0.299 liters | |
137 | Nigeria | 0.296 liters | |
138 | Bhutan | 0.285 liters | |
139 | Sao Tome and Principe | 0.266 liters | |
140 | Singapore | 0.26 liters | |
141 | Mexico | 0.23 liters | |
142 | Tonga | 0.23 liters | |
143 | Djibouti | 0.214 liters | |
144 | Togo | 0.191 liters | |
145 | Zambia | 0.189 liters | |
146 | Benin | 0.174 liters | |
147 | Burkina Faso | 0.167 liters | |
148 | Vietnam | 0.167 liters | |
149 | Mozambique | 0.15 liters | |
150 | Tunisia | 0.109 liters | |
151 | Papua New Guinea | 0.105 liters | |
152 | Rwanda | 0.099 liters | |
153 | Ethiopia | 0.099 liters | |
154 | Malaysia | 0.098 liters | |
155 | Morocco | 0.088 liters | |
156 | Kuwait | 0.082 liters | |
157 | Eswatini | 0.079 liters | |
158 | Algeria | 0.074 liters | |
159 | Comoros | 0.071 liters | |
160 | Egypt | 0.069 liters | |
161 | Madagascar | 0.067 liters | |
162 | Solomon Islands | 0.062 liters | |
163 | Niger | 0.056 liters | |
164 | Brunei Darussalam | 0.048 liters | |
165 | Central African Republic | 0.039 liters | |
166 | Pakistan | 0.03 liters | |
167 | Chad | 0.029 liters | |
168 | Sierra Leone | 0.028 liters | |
169 | Senegal | 0.026 liters | |
170 | Timor-Leste | 0.016 liters | |
171 | Mali | 0.015 liters | |
172 | Gambia | 0.014 liters | |
173 | Guinea | 0.014 liters | |
174 | Indonesia | 0.01 liters | |
175 | Congo, Democratic Republic of the | 0.008 liters | |
176 | Cameroon | 0.006 liters | |
177 | Burundi | 0.004 liters | |
178 | Bangladesh | 0.003 liters | |
179 | Afghanistan | 0 liters | |
180 | Eritrea | 0 liters | |
181 | Iran | 0 liters | |
182 | Libya | 0 liters | |
183 | Mauritania | 0 liters | |
184 | Somalia | 0 liters | |
185 | Sudan | 0 liters | |
186 | Yemen | 0 liters |
- #1
Belarus
- #2
Saint Lucia
- #3
Estonia
- #4
Dominica
- #5
Russia
- #6
Kyrgyzstan
- #7
Mongolia
- #8
Mauritius
- #9
Lithuania
- #10
Slovakia
Analysis: These countries represent the highest values in this dataset, showcasing significant scale and impact on global statistics.
- #186
Yemen
- #185
Sudan
- #184
Somalia
- #183
Mauritania
- #182
Libya
- #181
Iran
- #180
Eritrea
- #179
Afghanistan
- #178
Bangladesh
- #177
Burundi
Context: These countries or territories have the lowest values, often due to geographic size, administrative status, or specific characteristics.
Insights by country
Bangladesh
In 2010, Bangladesh ranked #178 globally in Average Spirits Consumption Per Capita, with a value of 0.002976111 liters. This figure is significantly lower than the global average, reflecting the country's strict regulations on alcohol due to its predominantly Muslim population. Cultural norms and religious beliefs play a crucial role in limiting alcohol consumption, resulting in one of the lowest per capita figures worldwide.
Afghanistan
In 2010, Afghanistan ranked #179 globally with an average spirits consumption per capita of 0 liters. This figure is significantly lower than many countries in the region, reflecting cultural norms and legal restrictions surrounding alcohol consumption. Predominantly influenced by Islamic traditions, Afghanistan's strict regulations on alcohol have resulted in minimal production and consumption among its population.
Bahamas
In 2010, the Bahamas ranked #32 globally for Average Spirits Consumption Per Capita, with a value of 2.8087533 liters. This figure is notably higher than many Caribbean neighbors, reflecting a cultural affinity for spirits in the region. Contributing factors include a vibrant tourism sector that promotes nightlife and local distilleries producing rum, a staple in Bahamian culture.
Malta
In 2010, Malta ranked #72 globally in Average Spirits Consumption Per Capita, with a value of 1.6273656 liters. This figure is relatively low compared to top-ranked countries where consumption can exceed 10 liters per capita. Malta's spirits consumption is influenced by its Mediterranean lifestyle and tourism sector, where local traditions and social gatherings often include alcoholic beverages, yet the overall consumption remains modest compared to other nations.
Croatia
In 2010, Croatia ranked #94 globally for Average Spirits Consumption Per Capita, with a value of 1.1972367 liters. This figure is relatively low compared to top-ranked countries where consumption can exceed 10 liters per capita. Croatia's spirits consumption is influenced by a rich cultural heritage of traditional drink production, particularly in regions known for brandy, as well as a vibrant tourism industry that promotes local beverages.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica ranked #117 globally in Average Spirits Consumption Per Capita in 2010, with a value of 0.54996634 liters. This figure is relatively low compared to the global average, reflecting the country's cultural attitudes towards alcohol consumption. Factors influencing this statistic include Costa Rica's strong emphasis on family and community values, which often promote moderation in drinking, alongside a growing focus on health and wellness among its population.
Chad
In 2010, Chad ranked #167 globally in Average Spirits Consumption Per Capita, with a value of 0.029116517 liters. This figure is significantly lower than many neighboring countries in Central Africa, reflecting cultural and economic factors that influence alcohol consumption. Predominantly Muslim, Chad has strong social norms against alcohol, coupled with economic challenges that limit access to spirits.
Bhutan
In 2010, Bhutan ranked #138 globally with an average spirits consumption per capita of 0.28497165 liters. This figure is notably lower than many neighboring countries, reflecting Bhutan's unique cultural and religious practices that discourage excessive alcohol consumption. The country's emphasis on Gross National Happiness over material wealth also influences lifestyle choices, contributing to lower alcohol intake among its population.
China
In 2010, China ranked #29 globally with an average spirits consumption per capita of 3.24 liters. This figure is notably lower than the global leader, Moldova, which has a consumption rate significantly higher than China's. The relatively low spirits consumption in China can be attributed to cultural factors, where traditional beverages like tea are more prevalent, along with a growing trend towards health consciousness among its population.
Bahrain
In 2010, Bahrain ranked #85 globally for Average Spirits Consumption Per Capita, with a value of 1.4076322 liters. This figure is notably lower than many Western countries, reflecting a cultural context where alcohol consumption is often influenced by Islamic traditions. The relatively low consumption can be attributed to Bahrain's significant expatriate population, which includes many who may abstain from alcohol for religious reasons, alongside local regulations governing alcohol sales.
Analysis & Context
In 2010, Belarus led the world in Average Spirits Consumption Per Capita with a consumption of 5.75 liters annually, while the global range spanned from 0.00 to 5.75 liters across 186 countries. The global average stood at 1.50 liters, with a median of 1.21 liters, highlighting significant disparities in drinking habits worldwide.
Socioeconomic Influences on Spirits Consumption
The data reveals that countries with higher spirits consumption often share certain socioeconomic characteristics. In Belarus and Russia (5.41 liters), cultural norms and a historical preference for spirits contribute to their high consumption levels. These nations have long-standing traditions of spirit production and consumption, ingrained in their social fabric.
Conversely, countries like Sudan, Iran, and Afghanistan, all reporting 0 liters, reflect the impact of religious and cultural factors. Islamic laws, which prohibit alcohol consumption, heavily influence these figures, demonstrating how policy and cultural norms can lead to minimal or zero consumption.
Economic Development and Spirits Consumption
Economic factors also play a critical role in determining spirits consumption. In Estonia (5.64 liters) and Slovakia (4.61 liters), higher consumption rates can be attributed to their relatively higher disposable incomes and economic stability, which allow for greater discretionary spending on leisure activities, including alcohol consumption.
Meanwhile, countries like Bangladesh (0.002976111 liters) and Burundi (0.004214118 liters) show minimal consumption, often linked to lower economic development and limited access to spirits. In these regions, economic constraints might prioritize spending on essentials over luxury items such as spirits.
Year-over-Year Changes and Emerging Trends
The year-over-year changes in spirits consumption reveal intriguing trends. Nauru experienced the most significant increase, jumping by 2.34 liters (1886.2%), which could be linked to shifts in import policies or changing social attitudes towards alcohol. Similarly, China saw an increase of 0.65 liters (25.1%), reflecting its rapid economic growth and the rising middle class's increasing interest in Western lifestyles and products.
Conversely, Haiti experienced a notable decrease of 1.22 liters (-35.9%), potentially due to economic downturns or natural disasters affecting production and distribution. Ukraine's decrease by 1.20 liters (-23.6%) might be attributed to economic instability and changing public health policies aimed at reducing alcohol consumption.
Policy and Public Health Impacts
Government policies and public health campaigns are pivotal in shaping spirits consumption. In Kyrgyzstan (5.1 liters) and Mongolia (4.99 liters), high consumption rates might prompt governmental interventions to address health concerns. Countries with zero consumption, such as Yemen and Libya, demonstrate how stringent regulations and cultural mores can effectively curb alcohol use.
Public health campaigns in countries like Georgia, which saw a significant increase in consumption by 0.94 liters (40.5%), might need to adapt to emerging consumption patterns, emphasizing responsible drinking and health education to mitigate potential negative impacts.
Overall, the 2010 data on Average Spirits Consumption Per Capita underscores the diverse influences of culture, economy, and policy on global drinking habits. Understanding these patterns is crucial for governments and health organizations aiming to address the social and health implications of alcohol consumption worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions About Average Spirits Consumption Per Capita in 2010
Which country had the highest average spirits consumption per capita in 2010?
Belarus had the highest average spirits consumption per capita in 2010, with 5.75 liters.
Which country had the lowest average spirits consumption per capita in 2010?
Eritrea had the lowest average spirits consumption per capita in 2010, with 0 liters.
What was the average spirits consumption per capita across all countries in 2010?
The average spirits consumption per capita across all countries in 2010 was 1.5 liters.
What was the median spirits consumption per capita in 2010?
The median spirits consumption per capita in 2010 was 1.2 liters.
How many countries were included in the spirits consumption dataset for 2010?
The dataset for 2010 included 186 countries.
Which countries were in the top 3 for spirits consumption per capita in 2010?
The top 3 countries for spirits consumption per capita in 2010 were Belarus with 5.75 liters, Saint Lucia with 5.67 liters, and Estonia with 5.64 liters.
Data Source
Spirits consumption per person | World Health Organization – Global Health Observatory via Our World in Data
Data produced by World Health Organization – Global Health Observatory, compiled and published by Our World in Data as "Spirits consumption per person".
Visit Data SourceCite this page
Geo Factbook. (n.d.). Average Spirits Consumption Per Capita by Country, 2010. Retrieved November 13, 2026, from https://geofactbook.com/fact/average-spirits-consumption-per-capita/2010
The figures on this page come from Spirits consumption per person | World Health Organization – Global Health Observatory via Our World in Data. For academic work, cite the original source as well.
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