Kenya will suspend exports of avocados and macadamia nuts to prevent substandard produce from entering the market, authorities announced on Tuesday.
Andrew Karanja, cabinet secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, stated in Nairobi that the ban on macadamia exports and harvests will take effect from November 2, 2024, to March 1, 2025.
“Dealers must submit their current stock for inspection, verification, and clearance by November 15,” Karanja said.
He emphasized that harvesting and exporting immature macadamia nuts negatively impacts the quality of Kenyan produce in the global market. To protect farmers during this period, Karanja noted that the government would introduce a minimum guarantee price for produce sold in the local market.
Bruno Linyiru, director general of the Agriculture Food Authority (AFA), said the suspension of avocado exports aims to sustain and enhance Kenya’s international market presence while minimizing disruptions caused by harvesting immature fruits.
Linyiru added that while small quantities of avocados may be exported by air, sea shipments will not be permitted, with the suspension starting October 25. The AFA will monitor avocado maturity trends and review the suspension in the first week of December.
He also cautioned exporters against mixing avocados with mangoes to compensate for the shortage of avocados during this period.
Kenya primarily exports nuts and fruits to the Middle East, Europe, and China, with avocados being the major fruit export.
