AFA Dismisses Claims on Suspension of Fresh Avocado Exports

The Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) has firmly refuted circulating claims that Kenya has suspended the exportation of fresh avocados. In an official statement released on Monday, July 7, the Authority described the reports as misleading and unfounded, urging stakeholders and the public to disregard the misinformation.

This clarification comes in the wake of a stakeholder meeting held on Wednesday, June 25, which brought together key players in the avocado value chain to deliberate on challenges and explore opportunities in the sector. According to AFA, the meeting was geared toward improving avocado production and ensuring sustainable market access both locally and internationally.

Misinformation Raises Alarm Among Farmers

Shortly after the stakeholder engagement, reports began to circulate alleging that the government had proposed a ban on the export of fresh avocados. This news sparked concern among avocado farmers and exporters, many of whom rely on the crop as a significant source of income. The Authority moved swiftly to dispel the rumors, emphasizing that no such proposal was tabled or discussed during the June 25 meeting.

“We note with great concern that misleading information is being circulated among the horticulture industry stakeholders and members of the public, that during the meeting, a proposal to ban the export of fresh avocado was discussed, which is not true,” the statement read in part.

Focus on Value Addition and Reducing Post-Harvest Losses

One of the main agendas of the June 25 meeting was how to reduce post-harvest losses and increase value addition in the avocado sector. AFA noted that there are ongoing discussions to ensure that avocados—whether sold locally or exported—are processed more efficiently, particularly for avocado oil. This would allow farmers to maximize profits and minimize wastage, especially in cases where fruits do not meet the export quality standards for fresh produce.

However, the Authority stressed that these discussions should not be misinterpreted as a move to ban fresh avocado exports. Instead, they are part of broader efforts to strengthen Kenya’s position in the global avocado market.

Assurance to Farmers and Exporters

In response to the concerns raised, AFA reassured avocado farmers and exporters that Kenya remains committed to exporting fresh avocados. Furthermore, the Authority stated that it is working closely with county governments to improve avocado production at the farm level. This joint approach is intended to ensure that there is an adequate supply of high-quality avocados to meet both local processing needs and international fresh fruit demand.

“Kenya continues to export fresh avocados and is also working to enhance avocado export volumes and diversify its destinations,” the Authority affirmed.

Kenya’s Global Standing in Avocado Production

Kenya has emerged as a major player in the global avocado industry. It is currently the leading avocado producer in Africa and ranks among the top six exporters of fresh avocados worldwide. In 2024 alone, the country exported over 119 million metric tons of avocados, valued at approximately Ksh22.27 billion—a testament to the industry’s economic significance.

Background on Previous Export Suspension

This latest clarification comes less than a year after the government temporarily suspended the export of select avocado varieties to curb the premature harvesting of immature fruits. In October 2024, AFA Director General Bruno Linyiru directed farmers to cease harvesting popular avocado varieties such as Hass, Pinkerton, Fuerte, and Jumbo.

The suspension was lifted in February 2025 following a review that found notable improvements in fruit maturity levels across major growing zones. That move was part of the Authority’s ongoing efforts to protect the reputation of Kenyan avocados in the international market by ensuring that only mature, high-quality fruits are exported.

As the avocado sector continues to grow, the Agriculture and Food Authority is calling for responsible communication and fact-checking among stakeholders. By addressing misinformation swiftly and transparently, the Authority aims to protect farmers’ livelihoods and maintain Kenya’s reputation as a reliable exporter of premium avocados.