Q2 2025 Market Update

Welcome to Sasma’s Q2 Market Update!

In this edition, we take a closer look at key developments shaping the alcohol market. From the expanding Ready-to-Drink (RTD) segment to regional market trends in Asia and South America, we share updates on where demand is shifting and how Sasma is responding. You’ll also find updates on our logistics operations, the construction progress of our Halsteren warehouse, and recent additions to our growing team. As always, our goal is to keep you informed with clear and relevant insights from across our business. Enjoy reading! 

- The Sasma Team

Spotlight: Alcohol Ingredients for RTDs

What We Offer

As the global Ready-to-Drink (RTD) market continues its rapid growth, beverage producers are seeking high-quality, consistent ingredients to keep up with consumer demand. At Sasma, we support RTD innovators by supplying certified alcohol bases that form the foundation of top-performing cocktails and pre-mixed beverages.

What We Supply

• Agave Spirits – Ideal for Margarita-style RTDs
• Rum – A versatile base for tropical and spiced blends
• Bourbon – Popular for bold, American-style drinks
• Whisky – Used in classic formats and emerging RTD formats
• Fermented Alcoholic Base – For clean-label or low-calorie formulas
• Vodka & Gin – Essential bases for neutral or botanical-flavored drinks

We deliver in IBC containers, ISO tanks, and tanker loads.

Looking to develop your next RTD product? Let’s talk about how we can support you with scalable, regulatory-compliant alcohol solutions tailored to your brand.
Contact us at sales@sasmabv.com or visit www.sasmabv.com for more information.

Market Updates

Asia Market Update

In the last quarter, the Asian alcohol market remained challenging and slow, with the industrial use of ethanol proving more stable—driven by steady demand from clients.

In the spirits segment, consumption declined due to high import duties, oversupply, and a shift toward healthier, low-sugar alternatives. Markets like Korea show evolving consumer behaviour, especially among younger demographics transitioning from traditional soju to international spirits like whisky. Opportunities are emerging through expanding product lines—such as agave spirits. However, logistical hurdles such as freight rates, tariffs, and delayed payments remain pressing concerns. Despite these, Sasma maintains a proactive, partnership-focused approach to help clients manage oversupply and market shifts.

South America Market Update

The South American alcohol market has faced considerable headwinds in the last quarter, with declining demand driven by currency devaluation, rising export costs, and widespread economic and political instability.

 Brazil, the world’s second-largest alcohol producer, saw a staggering 53% drop in exports compared to the same period last year, as the region grapples with survival-mode conditions. While consumer interest in premium or health-conscious alcohol is not yet at the levels of Europe and USA, opportunities are emerging for underproduced products in the region, such as concentrated gin, blended malts, and Scotch whiskies—now more competitively priced due to global oversupply. Despite the volatility, trade among major local producers continues at high quality. Sasma navigates these challenges by managing transactions in USD, EUR, and GBP without passing on currency losses to clients, providing stability amid the uncertainty of an ongoing commercial rift with the U.S. and reaching buyers with cost-effective offerings tailored to current economic realities.

 In the face of a difficult and uncertain market, Sasma remains committed to building opportunities through genuine partnership and transparency. We believe honesty is the foundation of real business, and for us, transparency isn’t just a value—it’s how we operate. Whether it’s freight complications, shifting tariffs, payment terms, oversupply or logistical hurdles, we communicate openly and consistently so our clients are never left in the dark. Clear, direct dialogue ensures everyone stays informed and aligned, reinforcing the trust that drives long-term success—even in the toughest times. 

Logistics & Shipping Update

Focus on Cost Efficiency, Stability, and Training

In the last quarter, Sasma’s logistics operations have remained relatively stable, despite broader market uncertainties. Freight prices have become a key focus area, with the team actively comparing rates across suppliers to secure cost-effective options while maintaining service reliability. Although isolated delays were reported—particularly due to geopolitical disruptions in the Middle East and occasional rerouting of vessels—these have so far been manageable through proactive communication with customers.

Capacity issues remain within normal bounds, and sailing schedules, including from historically problematic routes such as Colombia, have shown signs of improvement. Additionally, the company has introduced mandatory logistics training across departments, covering Incoterms, customs procedures, and excise regulations, in preparation for upcoming certification requirements.

Sasma Company Updates

Halsteren Warehouse Update

New Team Members This Year

Our multi national team is growing! We are thrilled to have welcomed several new team members.

• Eelco Brouwer: CFO
• Michel de Wit: Accountant
• Sue-Êdy Luciana: Logistics Coordinator
• Neil Brender à Brandis: Logistics Coordinator
• Harmen van den Berg: Product Manager