The mezcal market in Mexico and the U.S.: numbers and trends
Mezcal went from niche to global category in just over a decade, and it's now in a period of adjustment. Certified production grew from under 1 million liters in 2011 to 11.3 million in 2024. Oaxaca makes about 90%, most mezcal is exported, and the United States is by far the top destination. Production dipped in 2023 and 2024 under pressure from inflation, exchange rates and taxes.
The category in numbers
| Indicator | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Certified production 2011 | 980,375 L | Revista Quixe, CRM data |
| Certified production 2019 | 7,145,039 L | Revista Quixe, CRM data |
| Production 2023 | −13.6% vs. 2022 | TLC Magazine, CRM data |
| Exports 2023 | −8.35% vs. 2022 | TLC Magazine, CRM data |
| Production 2024 | 11.3 million L (−7.17%) | El Financiero, 2025 |
| Bottled for Mexico 2024 | 3.1 million L (−16.68%) | El Financiero, 2025 |
| Exports vs. domestic | Exports are 2.6× domestic volume | El Financiero, 2025 |
| Oaxaca's share | About 90% of production | El Financiero, 2025; TLC Magazine |
| Artisanal mezcal | 93.71% of production (2023) | TLC Magazine |
| Top destination | About 75% of exports go to the U.S. | La Jornada, 2026 |
Trends that matter
- The U.S. leads. Three of every four exported liters go there, which is why the U.S. 40% ABV minimum shapes so many bottlings.
- Mexico's home market shrank in 2024, with liters bottled for Mexico down almost 17%.
- Taxes weigh heavily in Mexico. The IEPS excise tax can equal 53–75% of the retail price, and there are proposals to base it on alcohol content instead of value (El Financiero, 2025).
- Artisanal dominates. Nearly all certified mezcal is artisanal, with higher costs than industrial spirits.
- A moderate recovery is expected, with 3–5% growth forecast for 2026 (El Financiero, 2025).
What it means for bars, retailers and distributors
- Today's mezcal buyer looks for story and clear origin, not just price.
- Brands with certification, traceability and an approachable profile have the edge in a market that's consolidating.
- Selling in both the U.S. and Mexico requires market-specific bottlings.
How it applies to ZUNTE
ZUNTE is present in the two markets that define the category: Mexico and the U.S., through Zunte Spirits LLC in Dallas, at 40% ABV in both.
FAQ
How much mezcal does Mexico produce?
11.3 million liters in 2024, according to El Financiero.
Which state produces the most mezcal?
Oaxaca, with about 90% of national production.
Where is mezcal exported?
Mainly to the United States, which receives about 75% of exports.
Is the mezcal market growing?
It grew fast through 2022, dipped in 2023 and 2024, and 3–5% growth is expected in 2026.
