Kenyan export season hampered by issues

\”To ensure favorable arrivals, adherence to the fundamental principles of the avocado industry is essential.\”
The Kenyan export season for 2023 commenced on March 24th this year, primarily attributable to adverse weather conditions in Kenya, which resulted in suboptimal dry matter levels.

As most growers and exporters are aware, premium prices can be achieved at the season\’s outset and conclusion, when the market is less burdened with an excess of fruit.

\”The Chinese avocado market is still relatively nascent, with consumer expectations not yet matching those in Europe and the USA. In fact, a significant portion of the population in China consumes avocados even when they are not fully ripe,\” remarks Paul Huish, Senior Commercial Manager at Alspecs Farms.

\”Regrettably, due to a lack of knowledge, some exporters take risks by shipping avocados with dry matter levels below 23%, solely driven by price considerations. To export avocados from Kenya to China, the product must undergo a fumigation process, which places stress on the fruit. Therefore, achieving favorable arrivals necessitates adhering to the fundamental rules of the avocado industry: maintaining a minimum dry matter of 23%, sourcing fruit from consistent orchards, enforcing stringent harvesting and post-harvest practices, and ensuring the integrity of the cold chain. These principles are deeply ingrained in Alspecs Farms\’ core values.

Unfortunately, not all Kenyan exporters adhered to these criteria, resulting in quality issues upon arrival, particularly when subpar avocados were subjected to fumigation. As Kenyan exporters striving to establish the Kenyan Avocado brand, it is imperative that we uphold these principles.\”

This season, the Chinese market faced heightened pressure due to the substantial influx of Peruvian avocados. Weeks 22 and 23 recorded the highest arrivals, with 140 and 148 containers, respectively. These surges in supply pushed prices down to a level of $4.68 USD per box.

\”At these price levels, growers and exporters find it challenging to generate profits. However, it appears that the majority of Peruvian avocados have been harvested and exported, and markets are anticipated to stabilize at more favorable price levels. Alspecs Farms will commence its second crop harvest in two weeks, continuing operations until the end of October.\”