Harvested avocados/FILE

The Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) has dismissed claims that it has suspended the export of fresh avocados.

The authority in a statement on Monday termed the information, which was circulating among horticulture stakeholders, as misleading.

“We note with great concern that misleading information is being circulated among the Horticulture industry stakeholders and the public, that during a meeting, a proposal to ban the export of fresh avocados was discussed. This is not true,” the statement clarified.

AFA admitted that they held a meeting with Avocado oil processors on June 25, 2025, but they clarified that they held the meeting to discuss Avocado oil production, the challenges, and prospects of enhancing production.

“This was to ensure that all Avocado not sold locally or exported is processed for oil, to reduce post-harvest losses,” the statement read in part.

“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.”

The meeting held by AFA was in conjunction with the Presidential Economic Transformation Secretariat (PETS).

Additionally, AFA noted that they are also working in collaboration with Counties, to increase avocado production at farm level.

This, they said is to ensure sufficient supply for both fresh export and avocado oil production.

Government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura on Tuesday also confirmed that Kenya has not banned fresh avocado exports.

He noted that AFA has confirmed that exports are ongoing, with efforts underway to boost both volumes and market reach.

“Claims that a ban was discussed during the June 25 meeting are false,” Mwaura said.

He mentioned that Kenya remains to be the leading avocado exporter in Africa.

Currently, Kenya is a leading producer of avocado in Africa and among the top six fresh avocado exporting countries globally.

In 2024, Kenya exported 119,801,078 Metric Tons of Avocado valued at Sh22.27 billion.