The Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) has announced the nationwide closure of the avocado export season, set to take effect on Monday, October 20, citing low production volumes and the need to preserve the quality of Kenyan avocados in the global market.
In a statement issued on Friday, October 10, AFA Director General Bruno Linyiru said the decision follows a recent nationwide assessment of avocado production zones, which revealed that current harvest volumes are too low to sustain sea shipments.
“The Authority has been monitoring harvesting trends and recently undertook a countrywide survey in major avocado production zones to determine current production and forecast future trends,” AFA stated. “Findings indicate insufficient volume of the main season crop to warrant sea shipment.”
However, the export of specific avocado varieties, including Hass, Fuerte, Pinkerton, and Jumbo, will still be allowed via air shipment, provided exporters obtain clearance from the Horticultural Crops Directorate and supply traceability information for all consignments.
The authority plans to review the closure notice in January 2026, after re-evaluating avocado maturity levels across the country. Meanwhile, AFA will verify existing avocado oil processors’ stock before the closure to determine legitimate export quantities. Processors found exporting oil produced after the closure date risk revocation of their licenses.
In a stern warning, AFA also cautioned exporters against disguising avocado exports as mango consignments to bypass the seasonal ban, a violation of the Crops (Horticultural Crops) Regulations, 2020.
“All produce for export must undergo inspection before certification,” Linyiru emphasized. “Mango exporters must ensure that their consignments consist solely of mango fruits.”
The move underscores AFA’s continued commitment to maintaining Kenya’s reputation for premium-quality avocados, ensuring sustainability, and safeguarding the interests of both farmers and international buyers.
