Avocado exports from Kenya to China are reshaping the sub-sector, with industry experts predicting that it will become a key foreign exchange earner in the coming years. Kenya began exporting avocados to China in September last year, and just a year later, the country made its first shipment to India.
The opening of the Chinese market has had a significant impact on the avocado farming industry in Kenya. It has increased earnings and boosted the capacity of the sector, as producers have worked to meet the market’s higher standards while improving Kenya’s ranking as an exporter. As a result, Kenya is now the fifth largest avocado exporter in the world, competing with Mexico, the leading global producer.
Kakuzi, the largest exporter of avocados in Kenya, is working to popularize Kenyan avocados in China. The Chief Executive Officer, Chris Flowers, explained that although China is still a new market for Kenyan avocados, it has the potential to disrupt traditional export markets once it matures. Efforts are underway to showcase the quality and health benefits of avocados to Chinese consumers.
Experts predict that by 2030, 50% of worldwide fresh produce will be consumed in Asia, making countries like China and India important trading partners for Kenya. While Europe has been the primary market for Kenyan avocados in the past, diversifying into Asian markets offers significant opportunities due to the large populations in these countries.
Ernest Muthomi, the CEO of the Avocado Society of Kenya, anticipates an explosion in the horticulture subsector, with signs of Chinese firms setting up operations in the country. He emphasized the potential for growth in avocado exports, despite the current limited volume shipped to China. Muthomi also highlighted the challenge of high taxes imposed on Kenyan avocados.
Kenya exported approximately 100 containers of avocados to China this year, which Muthomi considers a good start. However, he believes there is still immense growth potential in the Chinese market. The consumption of avocados in China is not yet significant, but given the population size, Kenya has an opportunity to establish a strong presence in the market.
The rise of Kenyan avocado exports to China marks a significant shift in the sub-sector, demonstrating the country’s ability to compete globally and establish itself as a major player. The efforts to penetrate new markets and diversify exports are expected to contribute to the country’s economic growth and foreign exchange earnings in the future.
In conclusion, Kenya’s avocado exports to China are shaping the sub-sector and positioning the country as a prominent player in the global market. With the potential for further growth and the establishment of partnerships with Chinese firms, the future looks bright for Kenyan avocados. As the Asian market continues to expand, Kenya’s efforts to diversify exports will likely pay off, solidifying its position as a key exporter in the horticulture subsector.
