• Avocado exports from Kenya set to resume after a four-month ban.
• Strict regulations aim to ensure the quality and maturity of exported fruit.
• Avocado industry contributes significantly to Kenya’s economy and international trade.

After months of anticipation, Kenya is gearing up to lift the ban on avocado exports, bringing a wave of relief to farmers across the country. The suspension, put in place by the Agricultural Food Authority (AFA) last November, aimed to ensure that exported avocados meet stringent quality standards. Now, with the ban set to be lifted on March 1, farmers are eager to resume their trade with international markets.

The decision to suspend avocado exports came amidst concerns over the maturity and quality of the fruit reaching foreign shores. Specifically, varieties such as Hass, Pinkerton, Fuerte, and Jumbo faced restrictions, with sea exports limited to size code 20 (184 grams). These measures were taken to safeguard Kenya’s reputation in the global market, ensuring that only ripe and top-quality avocados are exported. To uphold these standards, the AFA conducted extensive field surveys across key production areas in the country. These surveys, carried out between January 7 and 12, provided valuable insights into the maturity and volume of avocados available for export. Recent assessments have indicated that the fruit is now ripe and ready for export, paving the way for the ban to be lifted.

In preparation for the resumption of exports, avocado traders must adhere to strict regulatory measures set forth by the AFA-HCD. Exporters are required to undergo thorough inspections and submit necessary documentation well in advance of shipment. Additionally, stringent penalties await those found in violation of horticultural regulations, underscoring the importance of compliance in maintaining Kenya’s standing in the global avocado market.

As Kenya’s avocado industry gears up for its return to international trade, the significance of this sector cannot be overstated. With earnings exceeding Sh20 billion last year alone, avocados have emerged as a key player in Kenya’s economy. As exports resume, Kenya reaffirms its position as a major contributor to the global avocado market, showcasing the nation’s commitment to quality and sustainability in agriculture.