In a strategic pivot, Kenyan avocado producers are increasingly targeting the Chinese market, leveraging the Kenya Ports Authority's (KPA) logistical support to tap into a potential consumer base exceeding 1.4 billion. This move comes as Kenya commenced avocado exports to China in August 2022, following prolonged negotiations, witnessing a significant uptick in trade volumes. According to Chinese customs data, Kenya's avocado shipments to China saw a tenfold increase in 2023, with imports escalating to 4,324.1 tonnes from 443.6 tonnes the previous year. The surge is attributed to the high-quality Hass avocados produced by farms like Acacia, which meet both Chinese market and European Union standards. KPA's initiatives include prioritizing the loading of avocado shipments and minimizing bureaucratic delays, thus ensuring timely and cost-effective exports.
