Kenya’s avocado income reached Ksh19 billion final 12 months, pushed by a surge in volumes and the exploration of latest markets lately.
Christine Chesaro, head of Kenya’s AFA-Horticulture Directorate, disclosed a 14 p.c enhance in volumes, which translated to improved returns for farmers.
“Avocado manufacturing escalated from 441,593 tonnes in 2022 to 518,500 in 2023, marking a 14.8 p.c upswing,” Ms Chesaro mentioned throughout a stakeholder assembly in Nairobi.
“The export values for avocados in 2023 amounted to Ksh19.04 billion, reflecting a 12 p.c increase in international earnings from exports.”
Kenya has actively pursued new abroad markets, efficiently securing locations reminiscent of China and India. At present, in talks with 5 international locations, together with the US and South Korea, Nairobi goals to handle the potential surplus domestically.
Regardless of India turning into a current addition to Kenya’s market portfolio, challenges come up on account of a 30 p.c responsibility imposed by the Asian nation on exports, whereas rivals like Tanzania get pleasure from duty-free export standing.
The rise in abroad volumes stems from a plan executed over the past 5 years, leading to a major growth of avocado cultivation.
The avocados cultivated throughout this era are actually coming into the market, elevating considerations a few potential glut if extra markets aren’t established.
The federal government acknowledged the anticipated surplus final 12 months, as non-traditional counties like Trans Nzoia, Bungoma, and Uasin Gishu embraced avocado cultivation.
Kenya’s efficiency in 2023 exhibited noteworthy development, reaching Ksh157 billion from Ksh147 billion in 2022.
Trade stakeholders attribute this constructive trajectory to the emergence of latest markets and a dedication to complying with worldwide requirements, contributing to decrease interception ranges within the world market.
