Kenya is known for being one of the leading exporters of avocados in the world.
With the Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) announcing the lifting of the export ban on avocados starting March 24, farmers in the country are eager to take advantage of this opportunity.
However, there are conditions that farmers need to meet before they are allowed to export their produce. The AFA listed four conditions for farmers to meet before they can export their avocados.
Only those who meet these conditions will be allowed to export, according to Benjamin Tito, Director of the Horticultural Crops Directorate.
Farmers seeking to export avocados must apply for an inspection at least three days before shipping their produce. In addition to this, the Authority has categorized the sizes and weights of avocados that will be eligible for export.
Farmers growing Fuerte, Hass, Jumbo, and Pinkerton varieties of avocado have been informed that the maximum size to export is code 26, which is equivalent to 144 grams.
Furthermore, the AFA required all exporters to submit a list of their horticultural produce marketing agents before March 16. Exporters using unregistered marketing agents or suppliers will have their licenses revoked.
The AFA stressed that it is the responsibility of the dealer to ensure regulatory, market, and statutory compliance.
According to Trading Economics, Kenya is currently Africa’s top producer and the world’s third-largest producer of avocados, behind Mexico and the Dominican Republic. Avocado is also Kenya’s top export fruit, with Murang’a County being the top producer of avocados in the country.
Kenya exports an average of 80,000 tonnes of avocados annually, earning the country Ksh18 billion in 2022, according to Statista.
Farmers in Kenya are eager to take advantage of this opportunity to export their avocados. With the right steps, farmers can meet the conditions set by the AFA and export their avocados to the international market, contributing to the country’s economic growth.
