The Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) has clarified reports that Keenya had banned export of fresh Avocado, stating that it was all false.
In a press statement on Monday, July 7, 2025, AFA stated that its earlier meeting in conjunction with Presidential Economic Transformational Secretariat (PETS) with Avocado oil processors on Wednesday, 25th June 2025, was highly misinterpreted.
According to AFA, the meeting with the Avocado oil processors discussed Avocado oil production, the challenges, and the prospects of enhancing production.
This was to ensure that all Avocado not sold locally or exported is processed for oil, to reduce post-harvest losses.
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AFA expressed concern that the misleading information was being circulated among the horticulture industry stakeholders and members of the public, yet they planned for a fruitful meeting.
The Authority therefore held that Kenya shall not only continue to export fresh Avocado but is also working towards enhancing fresh Avocado export volumes and destinations.
It also announced collaboration with counties, to increase Avocado production at farm level, to ensure efficient supply for both fresh export and Avocado oil production.
Kenya as a leading exporter
Kenya is the leading exporter of Avocados in Africa and among the top six globally.
The country exported 119,801,078 metric tons of fresh avocados in 2024, generating a value of Ksh 22.27 billion.
The country is recognized as the 6th largest Avocado producer globally (FAO, 2020) and has risen to the 10th largest exporter by 2020, with potential to climb higher based on 2024 export figures.
Kenya has maintained its position as Africa’s top Avocado exporter for the past decade, surpassing South Africa, with only 10% of its total production exported.
Kenya Avocado production
Kenya’s Avocado production is concentrated in the Central (e.g., Kiambu, Murang’a), Rift Valley (e.g., Nakuru), and Eastern (e.g., Embu) regions, where altitudes between 1,200-2,500 meters and volcanic soils are ideal.
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The Fuerte and Hass varieties dominate exports, with Hass being preferred internationally for its creamy texture.
Avocados contribute 5% to Kenya’s agricultural export earnings, second only to tea, enhancing foreign exchange reserves amid a 2025 economic recovery.
The Avocado value chain employs over 300,000 people, including farmers, packers, and transporters, with women comprising 60% of the workforce in processing in 2025.
The Netherlands remains the largest importer, accounting for about one-third of Kenya’s Avocado exports.
Other significant markets include France, Spain, and the UK, with growing interest from the U.S. and Middle East markets in 2025.
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