International Business / The Pacific

Kirin, Anheuser Form Agreement: Japan’s biggest brewer, seeking to expand its U.S. beer sales, said it reached an agreement with Anheuser-Busch Cos. that will allow the American brewer to produce more types of Kirin-brand beer in the United States. Starting in March, Anheuser-Busch will make Kirin beers at its Los Angeles plant for sale mainly in the United States. Anheuser will produce Kirin Lager Beer and Kirin Ichiban. Also at the plant, Anheuser is currently making Kirin’s Ice Beer for sale in Japan only. Kirin Brewery Co. and St. Louis-based Anheuser will also form a joint venture in Los Angeles next month. Kirin will hold a 90% stake, while Anheuser will provide distribution, sales and information services.