Examining the Controversial Deal: New Belgium Brewing and Kirin’s Connection to Myanmar’s Military

As discussions around the acquisition of New Belgium Brewing by the Japanese beverage conglomerate Kirin heat up, significant concerns have emerged regarding Kirin’s financial ties to Myanmar’s military, which has been accused of committing genocide against the Rohingya Muslim minority. This alarming backdrop raises critical questions for the employees and supporters of New Belgium Brewing.

A Complicated Partnership

Kirin retains a 55 percent stake in Myanmar Brewery, the largest beer producer in Myanmar, effectively partnering with a military that has been implicated in egregious human rights violations. The United Nations has labeled the military’s actions as genocidal and has called for a worldwide boycott of all businesses affiliated with it. Although this boycott may not apply directly to Kirin, advocacy groups representing displaced Myanmar refugees have launched an open letter urging New Belgium employees to reconsider the implications of their company’s new partnership.

You can read the full letter here: Open Letter to New Belgium Brewing Employees.

Understanding the Financial Landscape

The stakes involved in this situation are significant. Kirin’s investment, which was initiated in 2015 for approximately $560 million, grants the military-controlled Union of Myanmar Economic Holdings a substantial 45 percent share in Myanmar Brewery. This arrangement has historically benefitted military officials, raising concerns about the ethical implications of Kirin’s continued involvement.

The Potential Impact of Boycott

While abstaining from New Belgium Brewing products may have little immediate effect on Myanmar Brewery’s bottom line, it could send a powerful message to Kirin and its consumer base. If enough pressure is applied, it might prompt Kirin to reassess its relationship with the Myanmar military. However, it is essential to recognize that Kirin operates globally, and a boycott from one sector does not necessarily equate to broader financial repercussions.

A Call for Conscious Consumerism

In light of these developments, I find it imperative to engage in thoughtful actions that align with our values, even if they are symbolic. While it’s nearly impossible to completely withdraw from businesses that connect to unsavory practices worldwide, calling attention to these connections can be a step toward accountability. Kirin’s choice to associate with a regime responsible for atrocities