NAIROBI, Kenya – The Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) has dismissed reports claiming the government is considering a ban on the export of fresh avocados, terming the information “misleading and false.”
In a statement released on Monday, the authority clarified that while it held a meeting on June 25 with avocado oil processors, the discussions centered on enhancing avocado oil production—not halting fresh exports.
“We note with great concern that misleading information is being circulated among horticulture stakeholders and the public, that during a meeting, a proposal to ban the export of fresh avocados was discussed. This is not true,” AFA said.
The meeting, held in collaboration with the Presidential Economic Transformation Secretariat (PETS), focused on addressing challenges in the avocado oil sector and strategies to curb post-harvest losses.
According to AFA, the goal is to ensure surplus or unsold avocados—those not consumed locally or exported—are processed for oil.
“The Authority therefore confirms that Kenya shall not only continue to export fresh avocado but is working towards enhancing fresh avocado export volumes and destinations,” the statement added.
AFA also highlighted ongoing collaboration with county governments aimed at ramping up avocado production at the farm level.
This is expected to ensure consistent supply for both the fresh export and processing sectors.
Government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura echoed AFA’s position on Tuesday, saying claims of a proposed ban during the June 25 meeting were unfounded.
“There is no ban. Exports are ongoing and efforts are being made to increase both volumes and global market access,” Mwaura said.
Kenya remains the top avocado exporter in Africa and ranks among the world’s top six exporters of fresh avocados.
In 2024, the country shipped 119.8 million metric tonnes of the fruit, earning Sh22.27 billion in export revenue.
