Kenya is set to resume avocado exports in two weeks, marking the end of a four-month hiatus imposed by the Agricultural Food Authority (AFA).
The ban, which was instigated by the Horticultural Crops Directorate (HCD) in November last year to ensure the maturity and quality of exported fruit, will be lifted on March 1.
However, exports of Fuerte and Hass avocado varieties by sea will remain restricted to size code 20 (184 grams) until the commencement of the open export window.
Previously, the government had suspended the sea export of Hass, Pinkerton, Fuerte, and Jumbo avocado varieties, opting for air transport for limited quantities to prevent the export of unripe fruit, which had previously damaged Kenya’s reputation in international markets.
The decision to lift the suspension came after avocado field surveys conducted by the AFA between January 7 and 12 to evaluate the maturity and volume of fruit in key production areas across the country.
According to Christine Chesaro, the acting Director-General of AFA, a month ago, the fruit was deemed insufficient, necessitating the extension of restrictions on avocado shipments by sea.
However, recent assessments have indicated that the fruit is now ripe on farms and meets the required volumes.
“All export produce is subject to inspection by AFA-HCD inspectors. Exporters are required to apply for inspection at least three days prior to shipment,” said a memo dated February 14 to all avocado traders.
Exporters must submit a list of their Horticultural Produce Marketing Agents (HPMAs) or suppliers by February 26, according to a directive issued by the Agricultural Food Authority (AFA).
The directive underscores the importance of avocado traders monitoring production and post-production processes to ensure compliance with both regulatory and market standards.
AFA has implemented stringent measures, including penalties, for exporters or their agents found transporting avocados without crates or in open pick-up trucks, which violates the Horticultural Regulations.
Kenya’s avocado exports, primarily consisting of Hass, Fuerte, Pinkerton, and Jumbo varieties, are often referred to as the ‘green gold’ of the future.
Last year, avocado export earnings surpassed Sh20 billion, with the majority of exports destined for Europe and Middle Eastern countries, making it a significant source of foreign exchange for Kenya.
Despite challenges such as smuggling attempts and market price fluctuations, Kenya has emerged as a key player in the global avocado trade, surpassing South Africa in export volume. Additionally, the emergence of local cottage industries specializing in avocado oil extraction has further bolstered the country’s growing avocado industry.