The US remains the top market in the world for tequila while mezcal consumption in the US was up 32.4% last year, rising from 261,000 9-litre cases in 2018. 

Collectively, the agave-based spirits category is forecasted by IWSR to grow by 4% CAGR through 2022, meaning it could soon overtake rum volumes in the US. 

Brandy Rand, US president of IWSR Drinks Market Analysis, believes the increase in agave spirits is due to cocktail growth. “The Margarita – always a favorite on Cinco de Mayo – has long dominated as one of the most popular cocktails in America,” said Rand.

Globally, tequila is forecasted to grow 2.5% CAGR from 2018 to 2022 and in addition to the US, the largest gains are expected in Australia, China, UK and Russia.