The Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) has announced the closure of the exportation of certain types of avocados by sea.
The AFA in conjunction with the Horticultural Crops Directorate (HCD) issued the directive stating that the bid aims to sustain and grow Kenya’s international markets through the minimization of the interruption of the crop cycle which is occasioned by harvesting of immature avocado.
“The closing of Hass, Pinkerton, Fuerte and Jumbo harvesting season for sea shipment for the 2024/2025 fiscal year will come into force with effect from October 25, 2024,” AFA Director General Dr. Bruno Linyiru said.
The directive is set to take effect on October 25, 2024.
AFA, however, said the export of Hass, Fuerte, Pinkerton and Jumbo varieties will continue by air shipment.
"Export clearances shall be granted subject to inspection by the Directorate. Traceability information will be required for all consignments,” Linyiru added.
Linyiru said the reduction in the projected volumes of the subsequent
harvests is one of the major reasons for the closure of avocado exportation by sea.
A countrywide survey carried out by the AFA Directorate indicated that through monitored harvest trends in major avocado production zones in the region, there are currently insufficient volumes of main season crops to warrant exportation.
The survey was also carried out to determine current production trends and forecast for future production for the main season the following year.
The temporary cease-to-export notice, AFA said, seeks to enhance the quality of avocados exported to the international market.
The AFA further stated that it shall continue to closely monitor avocado maturity trends and patterns in the country and give a review of the notice in December 2024.