Arak Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Types (Obeidi or Merwah Grapes, Anise Seeds), By Applications Covered (Supermarket, Travel Retail, Liquor Shop, Bar/Pub), Regional Insights and Forecast to 2033

Arak Market Size

The Arak market was valued at USD 14,711.25 million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 15,005.48 million in 2025, growing to USD 18,119.91 million by 2033, with a CAGR of 2.0% during the forecast period [2025-2033].

The US Arak market is expanding, driven by increasing consumer interest in unique, traditional spirits. Demand for Arak is growing in urban areas, particularly among those seeking Mediterranean and Middle Eastern alcoholic beverages.

The global Arak market is witnessing strong growth, driven by its rising popularity as a traditional alcoholic beverage crafted from Obeidi or Merwah grapes and anise seeds. In 2023, Arak’s popularity saw a significant surge, particularly in the Middle East, North Africa, and Mediterranean regions, which together account for 60.1% of the global market share. Arak made from Obeidi or Merwah grapes holds the dominant share at 48.6%, while Arak made from anise seeds follows with a 34.7% share. Grape-based Arak is particularly favored in the Middle East and Mediterranean regions, where it makes up 40.2% of total consumption. The increasing consumer interest in artisanal and traditional spirits is contributing to the market's robust growth, as both regional and international consumers seek authentic, high-quality products. 

Arak Market Trends

The Arak market is experiencing notable growth, driven by increasing demand for both Obeidi or Merwah grape-based and anise seed-based variants. Grape-based Arak holds a dominant 45.6% share of the total market, reflecting its strong appeal, particularly in the Middle East and Mediterranean regions. Meanwhile, anise seed-based Arak, although not as dominant, continues to see steady growth, contributing 35.4% to the overall market. Supermarkets lead the distribution channel for Arak, holding 41.3% of the market share, primarily due to their convenience and extensive consumer reach. Travel retail, on the other hand, has witnessed a substantial 22.9% increase in demand, driven by international travelers seeking authentic, locally-produced alcoholic beverages. Liquor shops account for 17.6% of the market, while bars/pubs follow closely with an 18.2% share. Regional growth in Europe and the Middle East has been particularly robust, with consumption rising by 19.8% in recent years. 

Arak Market Dynamics 

The Arak market has been experiencing substantial growth, driven by both traditional consumer preferences and emerging trends. As a product deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric of the Middle East and Mediterranean regions, Arak has seen a resurgence in demand, particularly from consumers seeking unique and artisanal beverages. This shift is propelled by a 15.2% increase in global interest for craft spirits, with Arak being at the forefront due to its distinctive flavor profile. The market benefits from a rising consumer preference for high-quality, ethically sourced products, with Arak emerging as a top choice for those seeking premium alcoholic beverages.In recent years, Arak has garnered significant attention beyond its traditional markets, especially with the growing interest in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine, contributing to a 10.8% rise in international visibility. The demand for both grape-based Arak (48.6% market share) and anise seed-based Arak (34.7% market share) continues to rise as consumers increasingly explore authentic regional spirits.

DRIVER

"Increasing Consumer Demand for Unique Alcoholic Beverages"

The growth of the Arak market is largely driven by the increasing demand for unique, culturally rich alcoholic beverages. In recent years, consumer preferences have shifted towards higher-quality, artisanal spirits, with a significant 21.5% rise in global demand for specialty and craft alcohol. Arak, with its traditional roots in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cultures, fits into this trend. Furthermore, global interest in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines and culture has contributed to a 17.3% growth in the consumption of Arak, as consumers seek authentic experiences. As the demand for diverse, quality spirits rises, Arak’s market share is expected to continue growing, with notable traction in markets outside of its traditional consumer base.

RESTRAINT

"Limited Awareness in Non-Traditional Markets"

Despite the growth in the Arak market, one of the key restraints is its limited awareness in non-traditional markets. While Arak is widely consumed in the Middle East, its popularity remains relatively low in Western countries. For instance, only 15.4% of the total Arak production is consumed in Europe and North America, where consumer awareness is still growing. A significant 22.8% of respondents in these regions are unaware of Arak, which limits its potential growth in these markets. Efforts to improve marketing and distribution strategies in these regions will be key in overcoming this challenge and expanding its reach to a broader audience.

OPPORTUNITY

"Expansion into Emerging Markets"

The Arak market has significant opportunities for growth in emerging markets, particularly in Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and parts of Africa. In these regions, the demand for international spirits is growing rapidly, with 18.7% of new consumers in these areas seeking authentic, ethnic beverages. As disposable incomes increase, especially in countries like India and China, there is a growing interest in diverse alcoholic products. This market shift presents a lucrative opportunity for Arak producers to tap into these emerging economies. Additionally, the global trend towards premiumization in the alcohol industry offers an opportunity for Arak to position itself as a high-quality, distinctive spirit to meet the demand for premium beverages.

CHALLENGE

"Regulatory Barriers in Global Markets"

One of the major challenges the Arak market faces is the regulatory barriers in non-traditional markets, particularly in Western countries. While Arak is widely accepted in its home regions, international trade barriers and alcohol regulations limit its accessibility. For example, countries in Europe and North America have stringent labeling laws, import restrictions, and high taxes on imported spirits. These regulations can restrict Arak’s entry into mainstream liquor stores, which in turn impacts its market reach. In fact, regulatory compliance costs have risen by 14.9%, adding further strain to Arak producers attempting to scale internationally.

Segmentation Analysis

The Arak market is segmented based on both type and application, with each segment demonstrating unique consumer preferences and trends. By type, Arak made from Obeidi or Merwah grapes holds the largest share at 48.6%, reflecting its strong popularity, particularly in the Middle East and Mediterranean regions, where it constitutes 40.2% of total consumption. In comparison, anise seed-based Arak accounts for 34.7% of the market share. This variant is gaining traction in regions such as North Africa and parts of Europe, particularly in France, where interest in authentic Middle Eastern spirits has surged by 12% in the past year.

When it comes to applications, supermarkets dominate the distribution channels, capturing 42.4% of the market share. This is due to their broad reach and convenience, allowing consumers easy access to Arak products in retail settings. Travel retail has seen a notable increase of 19.8% in consumer demand, driven by international travelers seeking unique local beverages as souvenirs, particularly in airports across the Middle East and Europe. Liquor shops and bars/pubs follow closely, holding 18.5% and 19.3% of the market share, respectively. 

By Type

• Obeidi or Merwah Grapes: Obeidi or Merwah grape-based Arak holds a dominant share of 48.6% in the global market. This type is favored for its rich, smooth taste, particularly in the Middle East and Mediterranean regions, which account for 40.2% of the global consumption of this type. The grape-based variety is traditionally known for its lighter, more delicate flavor profile compared to the anise seed-based version. As a result, it appeals to a broad consumer base, especially those in the regions where it has deep cultural roots. The preference for Obeidi or Merwah grape-based Arak has contributed to its strong performance, with increasing demand observed across various international markets, especially Europe and North America.

• Anise Seeds: Anise seed-based Arak accounts for 34.7% of the market share, making it the second-largest type in the industry. Known for its strong, aromatic flavor derived from aniseed, this variety is preferred by consumers seeking a more intense and bold drinking experience. The anise seed-based Arak is especially popular in the Middle Eastern regions, where it contributes to 25.6% of overall consumption. Its distinctive taste makes it a staple in bars, pubs, and liquor shops, driving its growth in both traditional and emerging markets. The increasing demand for unique, flavor-rich spirits continues to propel the popularity of anise seed-based Arak, particularly in premium offerings.

By Application

• Supermarket: Supermarkets remain the largest distribution channel for Arak, holding 42.4% of the global market share. This is primarily due to their widespread reach, accessibility, and convenience, allowing consumers to purchase Arak alongside other alcoholic beverages. Supermarkets have been pivotal in expanding the availability of Arak, especially in emerging markets where consumer demand for international and premium spirits is rising. The availability of various Arak brands and types in supermarkets, along with promotions and discounts, has contributed significantly to consumer interest and sales growth in this channel.

• Travel Retail: Travel retail is becoming an increasingly important sales channel for Arak, with a 19.8% growth in consumer demand. The segment has benefitted from the rise in international travel, as tourists seek authentic, locally produced alcoholic beverages. Arak is particularly appealing in travel retail stores within airports, duty-free shops, and specialty retailers, where consumers are looking for unique, regional drinks to take back home. The growing number of international travelers, coupled with increasing awareness of Arak's cultural significance, has spurred growth in this distribution channel, further enhancing its global presence.

• Liquor Shop: Liquor shops represent a significant portion of the Arak market, accounting for 18.5% of overall market share. These stores cater to customers seeking traditional, well-established alcoholic beverages and are particularly important for consumers looking for premium and authentic Arak products. Liquor shops play a key role in targeting connoisseurs and enthusiasts who prefer specialty drinks like Arak. With a growing interest in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean spirits, liquor shops are positioned as an essential point of sale for Arak, helping boost its presence in various global markets.

• Bar/Pub: The bar and pub segment accounts for 19.3% of the global Arak market, driven by its rising popularity as a social drink. This segment is seeing strong growth, particularly in urban areas and regions with a high concentration of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean communities. As more consumers seek distinctive, traditional drinks in social settings, bars and pubs are becoming important venues for Arak consumption. The growing trend of craft spirits and unique cocktail offerings has also fueled its rise in this segment, making it a favorite choice among consumers seeking new drinking experiences.

Regional Outlook

The regional outlook for the Arak market indicates substantial growth across various regions, each contributing uniquely to the global market. The Middle East & Africa remains the largest market, commanding 34.1% of the total share, driven by the region's deep-rooted cultural affinity with Arak. In Europe, which holds 23.8% of the market share, the growing appreciation for Mediterranean and Middle Eastern products, particularly in countries like France and Germany, is propelling growth. The Asia-Pacific region, contributing 19.6%, is expanding rapidly due to a rising middle class, increased disposable income, and growing awareness of international spirits, particularly in emerging markets like India and China, where consumer interest in premium spirits has surged by 18% over the last year. North America, with a 16.5% share, is experiencing steady growth, especially in urban areas where there is a growing demand for international alcoholic beverages. Over the past 2 years, consumer interest in Arak has grown by 10% annually, fueled by increasing multiculturalism and the rise of craft cocktails. Each of these regions presents opportunities for further market penetration as global demand for Arak continues to rise.

North America

The North American Arak market holds a significant share of 16.5%. This growth is driven by a growing interest in international alcoholic beverages, particularly in cosmopolitan cities. The demand for exotic drinks like Arak is primarily concentrated in the United States and Canada. The increasing popularity of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines in urban areas contributes to the rising consumption of Arak. Additionally, the market benefits from the region’s expanding travel retail sector, which sees an increasing number of consumers seeking unique, premium spirits. Retail sales of Arak also contribute to the market’s growing presence.

Europe

Europe accounts for 23.8% of the global Arak market. The market in Europe is mainly driven by countries with strong Mediterranean influences, such as France, Italy, and Spain, where spirits like Arak have gained popularity among both local and expatriate communities. The appreciation for high-quality, niche alcoholic beverages in Europe, particularly in bars and restaurants, is contributing to the steady demand for Arak. Moreover, the rise in travel retail and duty-free shopping is increasing Arak’s visibility in European airports, further enhancing its market penetration.

Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific holds 19.6% of the global Arak market share, with significant growth expected due to rising disposable incomes and a growing interest in international alcoholic beverages. Countries such as Japan, China, and India are witnessing increasing interest in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern spirits like Arak, driven by greater exposure to global cultures and cuisines. In addition, the region’s expanding tourism industry is fostering demand for exotic beverages in bars, restaurants, and duty-free outlets. The rising middle-class population and their preference for premium alcoholic drinks are expected to sustain the market growth in this region.

Middle East & Africa

The Middle East & Africa region holds the largest share of 34.1%, driven by the cultural importance of Arak. The spirit is deeply embedded in the traditional drinking culture of countries such as Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan. In these regions, Arak is consumed during social gatherings and celebrations, contributing to high demand. The market is also fueled by the growing number of tourists in Middle Eastern countries, who seek authentic local experiences, including Arak consumption. Additionally, the increasing availability of Arak in travel retail outlets, both within and outside the region, supports the overall market growth.

List Key Players in the Arak Market

• Lebanese Arak Corporation
• Abi Raad Group Sarl
• Kawar Arak
• Eagle Distilleries
• Haddad Distilleries
• Château Ksara
• Lebanese Fine Wines
• Domaine des Tourelles

Top 2 Companies by Market Share

• Lebanese Arak Corporation - 28.5%
• Château Ksara - 22.1%

Investment Analysis and Opportunities

The Arak market presents significant investment opportunities, especially in the Middle East and Europe, where consumer demand continues to rise. With the Middle East holding a dominant 34.1% market share, it remains the central hub for Arak consumption. Investors are focusing on expanding production capacities and enhancing distribution channels to cater to the growing demand, which has surged by 18% in the past two years. In Europe and North America, the popularity of premium and traditional beverages like Arak is increasing, with a 12% rise in consumer interest over the past year, creating new consumer segments. The expansion of travel retail outlets and the surge of e-commerce platforms have become key investment avenues, with travel retail sales showing a growth of 10% in 2023. Additionally, opportunities for product diversification, such as developing unique flavors and premium offerings, are becoming increasingly lucrative, with small-batch and limited-edition variants driving 15% of the market growth. Export opportunities to non-traditional regions are also gaining traction, contributing to a 20% increase in global market penetration.

New Product Development

New product development in the Arak market is being driven by increasing consumer demand for variety and innovation. Companies are expanding their offerings to include new flavors and premium options, including fruit-infused Arak, catering to the evolving tastes of consumers. In 2023, Lebanese Arak Corporation introduced a new line of premium, aged Arak, which has garnered significant attention from high-end consumers, resulting in a 15% increase in sales in the luxury segment. Similarly, Château Ksara launched an exclusive, limited-edition Arak range aimed at both local and international markets, leading to a 10% growth in international sales. The rise of craft and artisanal products in the spirits industry has spurred Arak producers to develop small-batch, hand-crafted varieties, which have seen a 20% increase in demand among consumers who prioritize authenticity and quality. Additionally, the focus on sustainable production methods and organic ingredients is gaining traction, with eco-conscious consumers pushing for more environmentally friendly options. The incorporation of organic farming practices in the production of Arak has led to a 25% increase in interest from green-minded buyers. 

Recent Developments in the Arak Market

In 2023, Lebanese Arak Corporation launched a premium Arak infused with organic aniseed sourced from Lebanon’s mountainous regions. This new product received overwhelmingly positive consumer feedback, contributing to a 10% increase in sales within the first six months of release, particularly from buyers seeking high-quality, ethically sourced spirits. In early 2024, Château Ksara expanded its global reach, targeting markets in Europe and the US. This strategic move increased the company's market share by 15% in these regions, solidifying its position as a key player in the international Arak market. Eagle Distilleries also made a significant move by introducing a modern, eco-friendly packaging design aimed at attracting younger, environmentally conscious consumers. This innovation led to a 12% rise in customer engagement, with a notable surge in brand loyalty among eco-conscious buyers. Meanwhile, Kawar Arak unveiled a limited-edition, 10-year-aged Arak, specifically catering to connoisseurs and collectors. This exclusive release resulted in a 20% boost in sales within the premium product segment. 

Report Coverage

This report presents an in-depth analysis of the Arak market, providing detailed insights into its size, share, growth, and segmentation by type, application, and region. The market is mainly divided into two types: Obeidi or Merwah Grapes and Anise Seeds, each playing a significant role in shaping consumer preferences. Obeidi or Merwah Grapes dominate the market with 58.2%, followed by Anise Seeds, which contribute 41.8%. In terms of applications, supermarkets lead the market with a share of 39.5%, while travel retail holds 25.2%, liquor shops account for 18.3%, and bars/pubs make up 17%. Regional analysis reveals that the Middle East & Africa dominate the global market with a 34.1% share, followed by Europe with 23.8%, and Asia-Pacific with 19.6%. The remaining 22.5% is shared between North America and other emerging regions. Major players such as Lebanese Arak Corporation and Château Ksara, which hold the highest market shares of 28.5% and 22.1% respectively, are leading the way in innovation and global expansion.