The beer industry is responsible for more than $250 billion in annual economic impact and the creation of millions of jobs, according to a new industry report.

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The Beer Institute and the National Beer Wholesalers Association issued the report Tuesday during a congressional briefing. It claims that beer companies are responsible for 1.5 percent of the gross domestic product and more than $48.5 billion in taxes.

American brewers and beer importers employ nearly 50,000 workers, according to the report, while distributors employ more than 130,000 workers and suppliers employ more than 380,000 workers.

In all, the industry is responsible for 1.75 million jobs, the report noted.

“It can be said that beer truly serves America,” Jim McGreevy, president and CEO of the Beer Institute, said in a statement. "Beer is more than our nation’s favorite adult drink — it is a powerhouse in job creation, commercial activity and tax revenue.”