Japanese Gin Defies Odds: Exports Double Amid Market Slump

Craft and Value: How Japanese Gin Became the New Global Back Bar Favorite

Against the backdrop of slowing global spirits sales growth in 2025, Japanese gin has demonstrated strong counter-trend growth. According to the latest data from the Japan Spirits & Liqueurs Makers Association, the export value of Japanese gin more than doubled last year, highlighting its unique appeal in the global market. Ryan McFarland of Drinksology Kirker Greer noted that Japanese gin has become a cultural bridge linking East and West.

The brand Ukiyo, based in Chiba Prefecture, uses a rice spirit base infused with traditional Japanese botanicals. Its sales performance has significantly outpaced market averages, reflecting the strategic importance of high-quality Japanese craftsmanship in the international spirits market.

Currently, Ukiyo's core markets are concentrated in the UK and Ireland. In addition to being stocked by major retailers like M&S, Waitrose, and Tesco, it is actively expanding its global footprint through travel retail channels with Gebr. Heinemann. McFarland emphasized that Japanese products symbolize quality and aspiration for European consumers. The brand's "accessible premium" strategy offers consumers a high-quality yet affordable daily luxury option in today's unstable economic environment.

Global Layout: From Britain to Southeast Asia

Looking ahead, Japanese gin is evolving from a mere sub-category into a staple of the global back bar, with professional bartenders actively incorporating Japanese flavors into creative cocktails. Despite global economic volatility and consumption challenges, Ukiyo enhances its competitiveness through visual aesthetics and a growth strategy that is globally consistent yet locally relevant.

The brand views Singapore as a key hub for expanding into Southeast Asia and sees great potential in markets like South Korea and Indonesia. Through multi-channel investment, the goal is to establish Japanese gin as an indispensable part of premium cellars and bars worldwide as the market stabilizes.

📅 Publish Date: 2026-04-07

🔗 Source: https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2026/04/ukiyo-japanese-gin-will-become-a-staple-of-the-back-bar/