Kweichow Moutai, a beloved brand known for its fiery and translucent baijiu, has played a significant role in Chinese society for decades. With a long history and the reputation of being the most popular alcoholic beverage in the country, it is no wonder that vintage cases of Kweichow Moutai can fetch high prices, with some cases selling for tens of thousands of dollars.
In 2021, Kweichow Moutai was valued at an impressive $500 billion, briefly surpassing Tencent to become the most valuable Chinese listed company. However, its market capitalization has since decreased due to several factors, including President Xi Jinping’s anti-corruption campaign. Prior to the crackdown, valuable bottles of Kweichow Moutai were often used in exchange for bribes, leading to suspicions of corruption within the company.
However, in 2020, a state TV report accused Kweichow Moutai of benefiting from bribery and this resulted in an instant $25 billion loss in market capitalization. This incident highlights the challenges that Kweichow Moutai faces as it navigates both its prestigious reputation and the changing socio-political landscape in China. Despite these setbacks, Kweichow Moutai continues to be a symbol of Chinese cultural heritage and is cherished by many within the country.
