In a notice given by the Kenya Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA), it’s it directed on the ban of avocado’s export. This could hit a number of kenyans making a living out of the fruit as the export means no more business.
According to the authority, the move was made to allow avocado’s to grow as they are short in the market forcing immature avocado’s to be harvested. A number of varieties have been included in the directive.
The varieties include Hass, Pinkerton, Fuerte and Jumbo. Therefore the varieties that are mostly produced for export due to their quality will cease to be exported. the government has directed the immediate halt in export of these fruits.
In response, the AFA Director General Willis Audi has directed that the move will be effected as from November 3rd.
“Following the findings of the survey, we hereby notify the Kenyan avocado stakeholders that the closing of Hass, Pinkerton, Fuerte, and Jumbo harvesting season. And export by sea for the 2023/2024 fiscal year shall be in force with effect from November 3, 2023.”
Kenya exports around 20, 000 Metric Tonnes of avocado yearly. Potential markets being China, France, Spain and even Turkey. China being the largest destination.
The move will affect only sea transport as those transported by air will allowed. But according to the agency, measures will be put in place to ensure only mature avocados are released for export.
“Export clearance (including fruit consignments from the EAC region) shall be granted for air shipment. This will be subjected to inspection by the Directorate. Traceability information will be required for all consignments.”
However strict rules have been put in place to ensure compliance by both farmers and exporters. Failure to comply to these rules will lead to blacklisting. The European market and China being in the forefront to impose these rules on exporters.
Although premature harvesting has affected the country’s reputation according to AFA.,The agencies doing everything possible to gain back the trust of foreign markets.