The Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) has announced the closure of the avocado export season for sea shipments in Kenya for the 2025/2026 fiscal year. The measure is intended to safeguard quality standards in international markets and protect upcoming crop cycles.

In a notice, Director General Bruno Linyiru stated: “This, therefore, is to notify you that the closing of the harvesting season for sea shipment for the 2025/2026 fiscal year will come into force from Monday, October 20, 2025.”

According to AFA, recent assessments across major producing regions showed that volumes from the main season crop are insufficient to justify continued sea shipments. The authority added that only mature avocados should be harvested to maintain the country’s export reputation.

Air shipment and processing
Exports of Hass, Fuerte, Pinkerton, and Jumbo varieties will continue by air shipment, subject to inspection and traceability requirements. “Export clearance will be granted subject to inspection by the Directorate. Traceability information will be required for all consignments,” Linyiru said.

The authority also confirmed that the harvesting season has closed for processors of avocado oil. Inspections will be carried out to verify existing oil stocks, and export permits will only be issued for oil processed before the closure date. Processors with old stocks must request inspection and clearance through AFA’s compliance office. No permits will be granted for avocado oil processed after the season’s closure.

Regulatory compliance
AFA further reminded exporters that mixing mango consignments with avocado during shipment is prohibited. The authority noted that some exporters attempted to circumvent restrictions in past years, an action that contravenes Section 20(5) of the Crops (Horticultural Crops) Regulations, 2020. Regulatory action will be taken against such practices.

Outlook
The authority will continue to monitor maturity trends in major avocado-producing zones. An updated advisory is scheduled for January 2026 to guide stakeholders on future exports.

Kenya remains one of Africa’s leading avocado exporters, with the crop generating billions of dollars in foreign exchange annually. However, industry experts caution that premature harvesting undermines Kenya’s reputation in global markets and risks long-term losses if not prevented.

Source: The Star