The Kenyan government restricts avocado exports and regulates mango shipments.
The Kenyan government has recently enacted significant restrictions on avocado exports and implemented regulations for mango shipments, aimed at maintaining the quality of its agricultural exports and protecting the reputation of its produce in international markets.
Avocado Export Restrictions
Effective Date: Starting October 25, 2024, the export of Hass, Pinkerton, Fuerte, and Jumbo avocado varieties by sea has been suspended. This decision was made by the Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) following assessments that indicated insufficient volumes of mature avocados for export during the current season[3][4] [7] .
Air Export Permitted: While sea exports are banned, air shipments will still be allowed under strict regulations. Exporters must ensure that all consignments are inspected and provide traceability information. This measure aims to prevent immature fruits from entering the market, which has previously harmed Kenya’s reputation among international buyers [4] [5] [8].
Monitoring and Review: The AFA will continue to monitor avocado maturity trends closely and plans to review these restrictions in early December 2024. This ongoing assessment will determine whether the ban can be lifted or modified based on fruit maturity and availability [1] [3].
Mango Shipment Regulations
In conjunction with the avocado restrictions, the Kenyan government has issued new regulations for mango exports:
Prohibition on Mixing Shipments: Exporters are strictly prohibited from mixing mango shipments with avocados. Reports have emerged that some exporters were attempting to circumvent the avocado export ban by concealing avocados within mango consignments. Such practices violate existing regulations, prompting the AFA to enhance inspection protocols for all fruit exports [4] [7].
Registration Requirements: Starting October 28, 2024, mango exporters must register their marketing agents with the AFA’s online platform. This registration is part of a broader effort to ensure compliance with export standards and facilitate better monitoring of shipments [5] [8].
Inspection Protocols: All mango exporters must submit applications for physical inspections through designated official channels before receiving export permits. This process includes providing details about the pack house locations to facilitate thorough inspections [4] [7].
Conclusion
These measures reflect Kenya’s commitment to maintaining high standards in its agricultural exports while addressing challenges related to fruit maturity and market reputation. The government’s proactive approach aims not only to protect local farmers but also to sustain Kenya’s position as a leading exporter of high-quality avocados and other fruits in global markets.