NAIROBI: The Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) has announced a suspension on the export of certain avocado varieties, including Hass, Pinkerton, Fuerte, and Jumbo, by sea to prevent the harvesting of immature fruits and to align with international quality standards. This directive, effective from October 25, 2024, is aimed at safeguarding Kenya’s position in global markets while ensuring compliance with the Crops (Horticultural Crops) regulations.
According to Kenya News Agency, AFA’s Horticultural Crops Directorate (HCD) has issued a notice to all stakeholders in the avocado and mango export industry, emphasizing the need to halt the harvesting of the specified avocado varieties for sea shipment in the 2024/2025 fiscal year. AFA Director General Bruno Linyiru stated that the decision was made following observations of exporters mixing avocado consignments with mangos for sea shipment, a practice that contravenes existing regulations.
Dr. Linyiru explained that recent surveys conducted across major avoca
do production zones revealed insufficient volumes of main-season crops, making sea shipments unjustifiable. However, export by air will continue, with clearance subject to inspection by the directorate and the provision of traceability information for all consignments.
The directive also highlights the transition period from avocado to mango harvesting seasons. All produce intended for export must undergo inspection, as mandated by the Crops (Horticultural Crops) regulations, to ensure compliance and quality. Kenya’s mango exports primarily target the Middle East, with processed fruits reaching markets in Europe.
Mango exporters are required to ensure their consignments fully consist of mango fruits and must apply for physical inspections, specifying the location of packing houses. Compliance with these guidelines is necessary for the issuance of export permits, reinforcing the country’s commitment to maintaining high standards in its horticultural exports.