KUALA LUMPUR (March 24): Heineken is shifting its production to Malaysia and Vietnam as the Dutch multinational brewer phases down its large-scale operations in Singapore.

The transition will be gradual, with full impact expected only by the third quarter of 2027, Heineken Malaysia Bhd (KL:HEIM) said in an exchange filing. The shift allows Heineken Malaysia to expand its exports that now account for less than 1% of its total sales to Singapore and other markets, it said.

“Additionally, it enables the company to optimise its supply chain capacity, delivering greater economies of scale whilst enhancing operational efficiency,” Heineken Malaysia said.

The move comes as Asia Pacific Breweries Singapore, Heineken’s wholly-owned subsidiary in Singapore, shifts to an import-based supply model supported by breweries across the region.

Singapore will remain the global home of Tiger Beer and Heineken’s Asia-Pacific regional office base. Over time, the current Tuas brewery site in Singapore will be redeveloped to support regional logistics and include a pilot brewery for new products.

To support the transition, Heineken Malaysia said the company, along with Heineken Vietnam, will produce and supply to Singapore and Asia-Pacific export markets. “This transition will be gradual and has been factored into the company's supply chain capacity plan,” Heineken Malaysia added.

Heineken Malaysia is one of the Dutch firm’s listed subsidiaries around the world. In Malaysia, Heineken employs over 500 people at its headquarters and factory in Petaling Jaya brewing brands including Guinness, Edelweiss, Apple Fox, Kelkenny, Anglia Shandy and Malta.