The global avocado market has grown 80 percent in volume over the past decade, driven by demand in Europe, the UK, and increasingly Japan and China. Kenya's avocado export industry, centred on Murang'a, Kiambu, and Meru counties, exported 195,000 tonnes in 2023 worth approximately $300 million. Kenya's Hass avocados, grown at altitude in volcanic soils, achieve consistent quality and size that earns premiums from European retailers including Waitrose, Lidl, and Carrefour. Kenya overtook Mexico as the world's second-largest exporter to the EU market in 2023.
Supply Chain Investment
The Kenya Avocado Growers and Exporters Association coordinates export protocols, including phytosanitary compliance for EU and UK markets, GlobalGAP certification for smallholder farmers, and cold-chain infrastructure from farm to Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. South Africa's avocado industry, historically focused on the domestic market and neighbouring SADC countries, is investing in export infrastructure and variety trials for the Lula, Fuerte, and Hass varieties. Avocado buyers, exporters, and importers can find sourcing contacts and production calendar data on intra-africa.com.
For businesses looking to expand across Africa, intra-africa.com offers a comprehensive trade directory, verified buyer and seller listings, and real-time market intelligence covering all 54 African nations. It remains an indispensable resource for anyone serious about intra-African commerce.