Beer exports from Sri Lanka had grown slightly in the year ended March 31, 2009 although the impact of the global financial melt down had been felt by export volumes particularly during the latter half of the year under review.

The Ceylon Breweries group marginally increased export volumes over the previous year with significant growth in the Maldives, Japan and the UK with the US market remaining at previous year’s levels.

There had been significant volume reductions recorded in France and Canada.

The group said that in the Maldives they had consolidated their position and available data suggest that they have attained market leadership

"Although not large in terms of volumes, the Maldives is a competitive environment and the challenges posed in terms of logistics are also considerable. Thus our achievements in that market are noteworthy," the companies said.

They attributed the slowing of their progress in the US market due to the onset of economic uncertainties but remained confident that the foundations laid there will help achieve steady progress once the economic situation stabilizes.