Kenya will begin sea exports of avocados on April 2 following improved fruit maturity indicators in key production regions, the country's Agriculture and Food Authority announced.
"Avocado harvesting for sea export will commence on April 2, 2026," the communiqué stated.
Following inspections conducted from March 1 to 6, authorities decided to extend restrictions on avocado harvesting for sea export due to insufficient crop maturity. However, subsequent monitoring showed improvement in conditions.
All export products will be subject to inspection at packaging centers starting April 7, with inspection requests required at least three days before shipment. The authority also mandated exporters to submit lists of registered marketing agents by March 30. Avocado harvesting for oil processing will begin later, on April 30, as this requires a higher degree of fruit maturity.
Authorities also warned of sanctions for violations. It was noted that some exporters and processors had already been harvesting immature fruit. Consequently, regulators will increase oversight of packaging facilities and oil processing plants. Offenders face revocation of licenses and registrations.
Additionally, the authority stated that avocado transportation must be carried out exclusively in specialized containers. Transport in open truck beds or without packaging will be considered a violation, potentially resulting in license suspension.
Earlier in March, Kenya sent its first batch of duty-free export goods to China under a zero-tariff agreement.
