E-Malt.com News article: Malaysia: Carlsberg to launch Chinese ChongQing beer in Malaysia

Carlsberg's Malaysian arm is set to launch ChongQing beer amid rising local interest in “authentic Chinese brands”, MSN reported on May 21.

In a statement, the group said it will roll out the “easy‑drinking lager” and brew it locally in Shah Alam.

Carlsberg Malaysia supply chain director Roger Li said: “Having started my brewing journey with ChongQing beer in its home city, I am incredibly proud to now brew this iconic beer here in Shah Alam, Malaysia.

“What matters most to us is staying true to its original character – refreshing, smooth, and easy‑drinking, so the flavours remain familiar to those who know ChongQing.”

ChongQing beer, named after its city of origin in China, was first brewed in 1958.

Carlsberg will sell the beer brand in Malaysia in 490ml cans at 3.8% abv. It says the brand is "well suited for long meals and relaxed social occasions”.

ChongQing beer will be made available at 99 Speedmart outlets nationwide from next month.

Carlsberg Malaysia managing director Stefano Clini said: “As Malaysian beer consumers show growing interest in authentic Chinese brands, this shift reflects more than a passing trend.

“The increasing appreciation for Chinese food, culture, and lifestyle points to a broader evolution in consumer behaviour.

“We are confident in making the brand affordable and accessible to meet the evolving consumer needs.”

Established in 1969, Carlsberg Malaysia is listed separately from its global parent company, Carlsberg Group and has operations in Malaysia and Singapore.

In February, Carlsberg Malaysia reported a “record” net profit of RM375.6m ($94.8m) for the financial year ended 31 December 2025, up 11.4% from RM337.1m recorded in FY24.

Profit from operations also rose by 8.1% year-on-year to RM449.7m.

However, annual revenue declined by 4.9% to RM2.3bn in FY25 from RM2.4bn in FY24.

Carlsberg Malaysia attributed the drop to “unfavourable Chinese New Year (CNY) timing” and subdued consumer sentiment across both Malaysia and Singapore.

Meanwhile, higher earnings were supported by price increases, value management initiatives, ongoing cost optimisation initiatives, along with “one-off trade offer adjustments from the Singapore operations”, it added.


22 May, 2026