AFA Imposes Seasonal Ban on Domestic Macadamia Harvest and Trade
Kenya’s Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) has announced a seasonal ban on the harvesting and trade of domestically produced macadamia nuts. The suspension will run from December 1, 2025, to February 15, 2026.
In a statement on Monday, AFA said the ban applies to all macadamia value chain actors, including processors, exporters, importers, and marketing agents. “Harvesting and trade of domestically produced macadamia nuts shall not be permitted from 1st December 2025 to 15th February 2026,” the statement read.
The authority said a recent phenological survey of key production zones revealed that much of the crop is still maturing. The ban is intended to allow macadamia nuts to reach full maturity, ensuring that exports meet quality standards. “The seasonal export closure is intended to allow adequate time for the crop to attain full maturity and to ensure that all exports meet the required quality standards,” AFA added.
AFA noted it will continue to monitor crop development and may adjust the closure period if necessary.
This announcement follows a July directive banning the transport and export of raw macadamia nuts through Kenya. At the time, the authority said several consignments of raw nuts in transit were intercepted at border points, and foreign exporters were advised to use alternative ports. “No raw macadamia nuts may be exported through or from Kenya, regardless of country of origin,” the statement said.
The seasonal ban highlights ongoing efforts by AFA to maintain Kenya’s reputation as a leading producer of high-quality macadamia nuts.
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AFA Imposes Seasonal Ban on Domestic Macadamia Harvest and Trade