While China is a huge market for imported spirits (it is the second largest market for cognac sales after the USA), the local spirits are generally not of great quality. The national beverage is Moutai Bai Jiu, a liquor distilled from sorghum that ranges in alcoholic content from 35% to 53%. Versions vary from little aging to some being aged for as long as thirty years. It is served in small cups and has often been used in China to toast foreign dignitaries.

Vodka and other liqueurs are also produced in China, although imported spirits account for much of the local consumption.