Govt denies banning avocado exports
By William Muthama, July 8, 2025The government has dismissed reports suggesting that a ban on fresh avocado exports was being considered, terming the claims as misleading and unfounded.
In a statement released on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, the Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) clarified that while a meeting with avocado oil processors was held on June 25, 2025, no proposal to ban fresh avocado exports was discussed.
The meeting, which was held in conjunction with the Presidential Economic Transformation Secretariat (PETS), focused on enhancing avocado oil production and addressing post-harvest losses.
“We note with great concern that misleading information is being circulated among the horticulture industry stakeholders and the public, and that during a meeting, a proposal to ban the export of fresh avocados was discussed. This is not true,” AFA stated.
The authority explained that the purpose of the meeting was to ensure that surplus avocados—those not sold locally or exported—are processed into oil.
“This was to ensure that all avocados not sold locally or exported are processed for oil, to reduce post-harvest losses,” the statement read in part.
AFA further emphasized that Kenya not only continues to export fresh avocado but is actively working to enhance export volumes and access new markets.
“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.”
In addition, AFA said it is collaborating with county governments to boost avocado production at the farm level. This, they noted, will ensure a sustainable supply for both fresh exports and oil processing.
Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura further echoed AFA’s remarks, stating that Kenya remains a top global avocado exporter.
“Claims that a ban was discussed during the June 25 meeting are false,” he said, confirming that exports are ongoing.
Kenya remains the leading avocado exporter in Africa and among the top six globally. In 2024 alone, the country exported over 119,801 metric tons of avocado valued at Ksh22.27 billion.