October 16, 2025
The Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) of Kenya has announced the suspension of the avocado export season for sea shipments starting Monday, October 20, 2025, for the 2025/2026 fiscal year. This decision comes as part of the government’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding the quality of Kenyan avocados and maintaining the country’s reputation in international markets.
Ensuring Only Mature Fruit Reaches Global Markets
In a formal notice issued by AFA Director General Dr. Bruno Linyiru, exporters were informed that the harvesting season for sea shipment avocados will be closed at this date. The authority emphasized that only mature avocados should be harvested to meet the high standards of global buyers and to protect future crop cycles.
This directive follows a comprehensive nationwide survey conducted recently across major avocado-producing regions. The survey findings revealed that the volume of mature fruit from the main crop season is currently too low to justify shipment by sea, leading to stricter export controls.
Air Export of Select Varieties to Continue
While sea exports of avocados are halted, AFA clarified that the export of specific varieties (Hass, Fuerte, Pinkerton, and Jumbo) will still be allowed by air. These consignments will be subject to strict inspection and traceability requirements to ensure compliance with quality standards.
Regulations Impact Avocado Oil Processors
The harvesting season closure also applies to avocado oil processors. AFA announced that export permits will only be issued for avocado oil processed before the official closure date. Verification inspections will be conducted to confirm existing stock levels. No permits will be granted for avocado oil produced after the harvesting season closure, underscoring the authority’s rigorous enforcement approach.
Tough Stance on Mango-Avocado Consignment Mixing
To prevent circumvention of restrictions, AFA has warned mango exporters against mixing mango consignments with avocados during shipment. Such practices violate Section 20(5) of the Crops (Horticultural Crops) Regulations, 2020, and exporters found violating these rules will face regulatory action.
AFA assured stakeholders that maturity patterns of avocados will continue to be closely monitored across all major growing zones. An updated advisory with guidance for the industry will be released in January 2026, potentially adjusting export conditions based on crop development.
Importance for Kenya’s Avocado Sector
Kenya is a leading avocado exporter in Africa, contributing billions of shillings annually to the country’s economy. Industry experts have warned that harvesting immature fruits harms Kenya’s international market credibility and could result in long-term economic losses if left unchecked.
This export suspension represents a proactive step to maintain Kenya’s standing as a reliable supplier of premium avocados while encouraging farmers to prioritize quality over quantity.