This archive report was first published on 14 July 2020.
On the back of the Covid-19 pandemic, Kenya's avocado exports reached a record high in the first half of 2020, with over 58,400 tonnes sold to 42 countries.
According to data from the Directorate of Horticulture and the Avocado Society of Kenya, the sales almost matched the total quantity sold in the previous year.
Avocado Society of Kenya Chief Executive Ernest Muthomi attributed the success to the growing demand for fruits during the pandemic, with avocados being recommended for their high alkaline content.
"The high export numbers can also be attributed to an increase in avocado acreage and quality of the fruit being produced by our farmers. We are excited by the prospects of rising demand for the fruit," Mr Muthomi said.
The Netherlands remained the lead importer of Kenyan avocados, buying 16.3 million kilogrammes by June, followed by Spain, UAE, Russia, France, and Belgium.
Mr Muthomi also noted that the average price of a four-kilogramme pack of hass avocados is Sh350 and is expected to hit Sh450 as supply in other parts of the world declines.
Avocado farmer Gideon Gitonga reported a similar trend, with more buyers calling in to purchase from him in the last six months.
