Kenya Closes Avocado Export Season by Sea From October 30

The Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) has announced the closure of the avocado export season by sea for the 2026/2027 season, citing low production volumes.

In a notice issued to exporters, importers and processors, AFA through the Horticultural Crops Directorate (AFA-HCD) said a countrywide survey in all major avocado producing zones showed current volumes cannot sustain sea shipment.

The closure affects harvesting of Hass, Fuerte, Pinkerton and Jumbo varieties for sea shipment and will take effect from Friday, October 30, 2026.

However, exporters will still be allowed to export the four varieties by air, subject to inspection and provision of traceability details for all consignments.

The ban has also been extended to avocado oil processors, with the Authority noting that importation of avocado fruit for oil processing has equally been stopped to prevent illegal harvesting.

AFA said the move is meant “to avert the harvesting of local immature avocado under the pretext of importation.”

Processors holding oil stocks and intending to export during the closed season have been directed to apply for verification through directorhcd@afa.go.ke by Monday, November 2, with only verified stocks to be cleared.

The Authority also put mango exporters on notice over mixing mango with avocado consignments to beat the sea shipment ban, contrary to the Crops (Horticultural Crops) Regulations, 2020.

AFA warned that violators will face tough penalties, saying any exporter or processor who contravenes the guidelines will have their license revoked.

The Directorate said it will continue monitoring avocado maturity patterns and issue further guidance.