NAIROBI, Kenya, Mar 27 – The Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) has lifted the ban on avocado harvesting that had been imposed to allow fruit maturity.
In a statement, the authority said a recent assessment showed improved fruit maturity across major production zones.
AFA said the lifting of the ban will allow avocado exports by sea starting April 2, 2026.
“All fresh export produce will be subject to packhouse inspection from April 7, 2026. Exporters are required to apply for inspection at least three days prior to shipment,” said Calistus Kundu.
“All exporters should submit a list of their duly registered Horticultural Produce Marketing Agents (HPMA) or suppliers by March 30, 2026,” he added.
The authority further noted that harvesting of avocados for oil processing will begin on April 30, 2026, given the need for higher maturity indices for such products.
The move follows an avocado field survey conducted between March 1 and 6, 2026, which had earlier found that most of the fruit was not ready for harvesting, prompting an extension of the restriction on exports by sea.
AFA warned exporters and processors against harvesting immature avocados, noting that enforcement measures will be intensified.
“The Authority shall be conducting pack-house and avocado oil processing facility surveillance. Any processor or exporter found processing or packing immature avocado shall have their packhouse registration and export license revoked,” it said.