AFA Dismisses Claims of Fresh Avocado Export Ban, Calls Reports False and Misleading

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AFA Dismisses Claims of Fresh Avocado Export Ban, Calls Reports False and Misleading

The Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) has dismissed claims of a suspension of fresh avocado exports, terming the reports as false and misleading.

In a statement released on Monday, July 7, AFA said no proposal to ban fresh avocado exports was discussed during a stakeholders’ meeting held on Wednesday, June 25. The meeting was attended by key players in the avocado sector to discuss how to increase avocado production and minimize post-harvest losses through increased oil processing.

The Authority responded after widespread concerns emerged among farmers and horticulture stakeholders following the circulation of a purported directive indicating an export ban had been discussed and implemented.

“We note with great concern that misleading information is being circulated among the horticulture industry stakeholders and members of the public that during the meeting a proposal to ban fresh avocado was discussed which is not true,” AFA said.

Reassuring the agricultural community, AFA said Kenya is still exporting fresh avocados and is working to increase both export volumes and destination markets. AFA also said it is working with county governments to boost avocado production at farm level to support a consistent supply for both fresh exports and avocado oil manufacturing.

Kenya is the leading avocado producer in Africa and among the top six fresh avocado exporters in the world. In 2024 alone, the country exported over 119 million metric tons of the fruit worth Ksh22.27 billion.

This comes after an earlier government suspension in October 2024 that temporarily banned the export of certain avocado varieties – Hass, Pinkerton, Fuerte and Jumbo – to prevent premature harvesting. The ban was lifted in February 2025 after confirmation of improved fruit maturity in key growing regions.

AFA urged stakeholders to rely on official communication channels and reiterated its commitment to supporting the growth of Kenya’s avocado industry.

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AFA Dismisses Claims of Fresh Avocado Export Ban, Calls Reports False and Misleading