The Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) has dismissed recent claims suggesting that a ban on fresh avocado exports was proposed during a high-level meeting with avocado oil processors.
- •The meeting, held in collaboration with the Presidential Economic Transformation Secretariat (PETS), focused on enhancing Kenya’s avocado value chain, not restricting it.
- •The forum brought together key stakeholders to discuss value addition through avocado oil processing, with the aim of reducing post-harvest losses and increasing farmers’ income.
- •A major agenda item was exploring the potential of converting avocados unfit for local consumption or export into oil, a move intended to strengthen the country’s position in the global market.
In response to misinformation circulating within the horticulture sector and on social media, AFA issued a statement clarifying that no discussions or proposals were made regarding a ban on fresh avocado exports.
“We wish to make it clear that there was no discussion or proposal to ban the export of fresh avocados. Kenya remains fully committed to supporting and growing its fresh avocado export market,” the AFA said.
Why it Matters
Kenya is currently the top avocado producer in Africa and ranks among the top six exporters of fresh avocados globally. The country’s avocado industry has experienced sustained growth driven by increasing global demand and expanding domestic consumption.
In 2023, Kenya produced 633,000 metric tons (TMT) of avocados, with exports climbing from 103,254 MT in 2022 to 122,581 MT. Projections for 2024 and 2025 indicate continued growth, with estimated exports of 128,000 MT and 135,000 MT respectively. This growth is being bolstered by new market access in Iraq, South Korea, and India.
Despite the higher export volumes in 2023, the value of exports declined by 11% due to quality concerns. Competitor countries like Mexico, Peru, and Colombia benefit from advanced farming techniques and infrastructure, allowing them to maintain premium product standards.
Kenya is actively addressing these gaps through improved agricultural practices and expanded cultivation. Production is forecasted to rise by four percent in 2025 to 585,000 MT, driven by better yields and increased acreage across over 30 counties, including Murang’a, Kiambu, and Nakuru.
