MANILA — Homegrown Filipino liquor brand Tanduay has maintained its position as the world’s number one rum for the ninth consecutive year, according to its latest global performance report.

The company recorded sales of 23.2 million case liters in 2025, though this reflected a 2.5 percent decline from the previous year. Across the global rum category, total sales also slipped, falling from 73.7 million to 73.1 million cases.

Industry analysis cited in Drinks International Magazine’s The Millionaires’ Club supplement indicated that spirits brands with strong local demand, competitive pricing, and wide distribution continue to drive growth amid challenging economic conditions. The supplement ranks the world’s top-selling spirits brands annually.

Drinks International’s research team said it collected data from company reports and directly requested figures from major global brands in January, according to a news release issued Monday.

“The pattern is clear. In tougher economic conditions, growth is following brands with strong domestic relevance, accessible pricing, and deep distribution,” said Oli Dodd, supplement editor of the magazine.

Despite the decline in sales, Tanduay International Business Development manager Roy Kristoffer Sumang said the company remains focused on long-term growth.

“We recognize that consumer preferences evolve, and we are there to meet their changing needs while remaining committed to our craftsmanship and innovation,” he said.

Dodd also noted that global spirits sales remain under pressure.

“The wars that colored previous editions continue and are joined by the war in Iran that further complicates any supply chains that cross the War Meridian while global trade disagreements seem to only take temporary pauses. It appears that global brands will continue to have to work harder for each additional case,” he said.

Founded in 1854, Tanduay said it has weathered major historical disruptions, including world wars, regime changes, and economic challenges.

“We will continue offering quality products at the best value and furthering our distribution globally,” Sumang said. “The World’s Number 1 Rum title is a recognition that we share with every Filipino, and we will continue to do our best in bringing the Philippines to the global stage.” (PR)