Producers and exporters of avocado are notified that harvesting and exporting of avocado will resume on 1st March 2024 following the opening season for avocado exports notice issued by Horticulture Crops Directorate on 14th February 2024.

The Directorate undertook a field survey in January 2024 in major avocado fruit production zones aimed at establishing the maturity and adequacy of volumes for exports. The fruits were found to be immature and inadequate thus necessitating an extension of restriction of avocado shipment by sea. A subsequent survey in the same zones was later done. The findings showed that there was mature and adequate avocado volume for export.

Following this notice all exporters are required to strictly adhere to the following regulations:

• Exporters are advised to apply for inspection of export produce at least 3 days prior to shipping.
• Export of Fuerte and Hass varieties will continue but limited to maximum size code 20 (184 g).
• All exporters are required to submit their list of all Horticulture Produce Marketing Agents or suppliers on or before 26th February 2024 COB.
• Exporters are required to strictly transact with marketing agents with valid registration permits.
• Exporters or their agents found transporting avocado without crates or on open pick-up trucks or probox vehicles contrary to Horticulture Regulations will be penalized.
• All avocado dealers are advised to take full responsibility of production and post-production activities to comply with regulatory and market requirements.

Kenya is ranked among the top ten exporters of avocado globally. The Agency reiterates the need for exporters to comply with the above requirements to maintain Kenya’s reputation as a source of quality avocado produce. This will support market access efforts aimed at growing the avocado subsector while bolstering Kenya’s export growth.