The Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) in Kenya has declared the termination of the export season for Hass, Pinkerton, Fuerte, and Jumbo avocado varieties. This cessation, effective from October 25, 2024, pertains to sea shipments for the fiscal year 2024/2025, although air shipments will persist under strict compliance with clearance and traceability protocols. The AFA's Horticultural Crops Directorate initiated this move after thorough assessments indicated a decline in avocado volumes adequate for export. Despite this, the authority ensures stringent inspections for air-exported avocados to maintain Kenya's reputable status in the international market.
Concurrently, the AFA is gearing up for the mango export season, targeting markets in the Middle East, Europe, and beyond. Exporters are advised against combining avocado and mango consignments, adhering to the Crops (Horticultural Crops) Regulations of 2020. In anticipation of the mango season and addressing farmer concerns over unpaid produce, the AFA announced the obligatory registration for mango Marketing Agents from October 28, 2024. This registration, accessible via the AFA-IMIS platform (www.imis.afa.go.ke), aims to regulate trade and protect stakeholders in the mango export chain. Registration facilities are set up in strategic locations including Nairobi, Machakos, and Mombasa.
Source: Tuko