Exports of Greek spirits rise

More ouzo, tsipouro and raki produced by Greek distilleries than ever before went to consumers outside Greece in 2022, as a historic record was set in exports of Greek alcoholic beverages.

Exports were higher in value and quantity not only compared to 2021 but also to 2019, the last year before the outbreak of the pandemic.

Figures from the Association of Greek Spirits Producers (SEAOP) also show a significant increase in exports not only to countries where there are large Greek communities, but also to countries such as Iraq and Bulgaria. Quite significant exports also head to the countries of Western and Central Europe, as many tourists who visit Greece try the traditional Greek drinks and then look for them in their own country.

With regard to Iraq specifically, the increased exports are related to the fact that ouzo is similar to the local drink arak, the...