Gov’t puts new measures to tame exporters mixing mangoes and avocados for export

Starting from November 13, 2023, Kenyan mango exporters will face more rigorous scrutiny, as the country's Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) tightens regulations to ensure the authenticity of mango export consignments.

This move follows the October 31 decision by AFA to halt avocado shipments in order to safeguard the quality of produce for both domestic and international markets.

Now, AFA has implemented a directive to physically inspect mango export consignments after concerns that some exporters have been blending mangoes with avocados for sea shipments, a violation of horticultural crop regulations.

AFA issued a notice, stating, "It has come to our attention that following the closure of the avocado harvesting season and export by sea, some exporters are mixing consignments of mangoes with avocados, which is against horticulture crop regulations."

To comply with these new regulations, farmers are required to request physical inspections for consignments earmarked for export.

They can initiate this process by writing to AFA, and the request should clearly indicate the location of the packhouse.

AFA warns that failure to adhere to these guidelines may lead to the revocation of export licenses.

"Ensure that the quantity being exported for which the permit is being sought consists of mango fruits in the consignment. Failure to do so may result in the revocation of their dealership in mango exports,” the notice states.

This move comes as part of AFA's broader efforts to uphold the quality and integrity of Kenyan horticultural exports, particularly in the aftermath of the challenges posed by the practice of harvesting and exporting immature avocados, which had previously damaged the country's export market.