The avocado season in Kenya started earlier this month and so far the season is showing a lot of potential. Demand is high, and the season might be the perfect opportunity for smaller to medium-sized companies to take advantage. One particular exporter is hoping to expand its market share in Europe.
For Kenyan avocado exporter Brahamers Company, the start of the season was promising. According to Teresia Kimani, Sales Director for Brahamers, there is a big increase in demand this year: “The avocado season started earlier this month and we are glad to see the demand is high. This is a good thing for smaller and medium-sized companies, as we are able to get a share of the world market that was previously dominated by only a handful of big companies. Luckily we have all it takes and are happy to see we’re receiving new enquiries.”
The avocado exporter has an established network in the Middle-East, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, but would like to branch out: “Last year we exported 20 ton to the Middle-East, but we are hoping the volume will increase this year once we enter the European market. We would love to find a reliable buyer from Europe, with whom we can partner on a long-term basis. I see a bright future in the avocado sector and would love to partner with someone who shares this vision. Then together we can work towards realizing our goals.” Kimani says.
The increasing demand does come with a few challenges, as it was pushing traders to ship premature fruits, says Kimani: “The sales of premature fruits has resulted in the government, through the regulatory bodies, to place a ban on avocado exports early last year and only lifted the ban sometime in March after ascertaining the fruit was mature enough for export. To counter the image that has emerged from these premature sales, it is now a requirement to have your consignment checked and tested by the regulatory bodies to ensure no premature fruits are shipped. As an exporter you only need to adhere to the regulatory bodies directives and you will not get it wrong.”
For the future Kenya does not only have to look to Europe, China has proven to have great potential as well: “Kenya is yet to start shipping to China, but is set to start once the bilateral agreements required to open the market are completed. Hopefully before the end of this season which ends in August,” Kimani explains. “The avocado varieties cultivated for export are mainly Fuerte and Hass. About three-quarter of avocados grown here goes to export with about 80% of this being Fuerte and 20% Hass.”
For more information:
Teresia Kimani
Brahamers Company Ltd
Tel: +254 721 448498
Email: Brahamersfreshltd@gmail.com