The Kenyan avocado production season ended on October 20, the official closing date of the export season set by the Ministry of Agriculture. Exporters experienced significant logistical complications throughout most of the season, resulting in market shifts. Allan Njoroge, General Manager of Danka Investments, recounts how the season unfolded.
© Danka Investments
The exporting grower said, "The season was a tough test. The logistics were very challenging and complicated, requiring constant coordination and endless interventions with the shipping companies. We've had transit times never seen before for shipping to Europe, reaching 50 days, and exorbitant transport costs."
The crisis in the Red Sea then eased two months before the end of the campaign, according to Njoroge. He continues, "Transit times have fallen to 29-30 days. It came a little late, but it's still a relief."
Kenyan exporters have been able to maintain the same levels of export volumes through market shifts. Njoroge explains, "Export volumes to Europe fell, but we were able to deliver to new or alternative markets, such as China, where transit time was 18 days, India, with 9 days, and the Gulf countries. Demand from these markets was high, which not only enabled us to maintain export volumes but also to obtain good prices and protect margins."
© Youness Bensaid | FreshPlaza.com
Daniel Njoroge and Allan Njoroge at Asia Fruit Logistica 2025
Price-wise, the campaign was volatile according to the exporter: "Prices were unpredictable, especially in Europe. We were used to clear price patterns, but sudden market shifts were the main feature of this season. Overall, prices were good in Europe, China, and Saudi Arabia. Improved logistics conditions towards the end of the season allowed for increased export volumes to Europe, but caused Kenyan avocado prices to fall until the end of the season."
The exporter remains hopeful for a calmer and more "normal" season ahead. He says, "We hope that things in the Red Sea continue to improve. Large volumes of Kenyan avocados will arrive next season, as new orchards are reaching maturity and entering production. With smooth logistics, we aim to bring back consistency to our exports in Europe and do business as usual with our long-term clients."
© Danka Investments
The hardships of this season may be a blessing in disguise, Njoroge concludes: "We have developed alternative markets and gained the trust of buyers there. We also want to maintain supply in these markets, such as China, India, and the Gulf countries. Our next goal is to improve the quality of overall Kenyan exports and build trust."
For more information:
Allan Njoroge
Danka Investments
Tel: +254 714 777674
Email: [email protected]
www.dankainvestments.co.ke
