The avocado sector in Rwanda is accelerating its growth and expanding its international presence
Rwanda's avocado industry is experiencing rapid expansion, driven by farmers' commitment, supportive public policies, and growing interest from international markets. Exporters, authorities, and producers agree that the country has successfully increased production volumes, improved access to key markets, and attracted investment across the entire value chain.
At the business level, S&I Fresh exemplifies this development. The company began exporting in 2021 with just 200 kilos per week and now ships between 5 and 12 tons per week, mainly to Dubai and other Middle Eastern markets, while preparing its entry into Europe. Nationally, data from the National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB) shows that avocado exports increased from 840 tons in 2019/20 to more than 4,200 tons in 2024/25, raising their share of horticultural revenue from 2.9% to over 10%.
Access to new markets has been key to this evolution. In November, Rwanda signed a trade agreement with China enabling the export of avocados to the Asian market, a strategic milestone for the sector. According to the NAEB, production is dominated by the Hass and Fuerte varieties, managed by more than 9,600 farmers, with mostly young orchards, which anticipates sustained growth in the coming years.
Currently, approximately 90% of exports are destined for the United Arab Emirates, with additional shipments to Europe and neighboring countries. Although air freight remains predominant, exporters are already evaluating maritime alternatives to reduce costs. From the fields, producers highlight a steady demand that exceeds supply, confirming the potential of avocados as one of the emerging pillars of Rwanda's agricultural exports.
Source: freshplaza.es
