Tequila producers pouring on promotions in China

For most Chinese consumers, tequila-a distinctive product from Mexico made from the fermented juice of agave plants-is an exotic liquor compared with foreign rivals cognac and whiskey.

But it may not be long before they list the exotic beverage as among their favorite during get-togethers or in bars as Mexico pushes ahead with an ambitious plan to make China its second-largest market after the United States within five years.

Mexico exported 525,000 liters of tequila to China in 2013, a 28 percent increase over 2012. According to the Tequila Regulatory Council of Mexico, the export momentum started in 2009, with solid double-digit growth in the following four years.