NAIROBI, Kenya, Feb 15 – The horticulture regulator has opened exports of avocado amid crop maturities in growing zones.
The Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) acting director, Christine Chesaro, said that the shipments will start on March 1, 2024.
However, Chesaro said that all exporters will be required to apply for inspection at least three days prior to shipment.
The Director added that exports of Hass and Fuerte varieties will continue but be limited to a maximum size code of 20 (184g).
“All exporters are required to submit a list of their Horticultural Produce Marketing Agents (HPMA) or suppliers before 26th February 2024. Exporters are required to strictly transact with marketing agents with valid registration permits,” Chesaro wrote in the letter.
“Exporters or their agents found transporting Avocado without crates or on open pick-up trucks (or probox vehicles) contrary to the Horticulture Regulations shall be penalized.”
In November last year, AFA’s Horticultural Crops Directorate banned exports of Fuerte and Hass avocados amid the harvesting of immature crops.
“The Directorate undertook avocado field survey from the 7th to 12th January 2024 to ascertain maturity indices and volumes of the avocado fruit in major production zones,” AFA stated.
“The fruits were deemed insufficient then, and thus necessitating an extension of restriction on Avocado shipment by Sea.”
