Exports on the rise for Tanzania's avocado industry

The avocado industry in Tanzania is still developing, but export volumes are increasing every year, according to Bernard Mafuleka, director of Afrocado. The company has been exporting two to three containers per week from Tanzania, but as of April, orders have increased to seven containers per week. Afrocado, which grows Hass avocados on its own 150 hectares and collaborates with other producers, also operates in Kenya, Rwanda, and Burundi to ensure a consistent year-round supply. Furthermore, they have begun establishing farms in Malawi to expand their presence in the region.

Tanzania's main export season runs from January to May, with some regions resuming in September. Despite variable weather conditions, a 10% increase in volume is expected this year, primarily due to tree maturity. While avocado cultivation and harvesting are labor-intensive, they provide employment opportunities and benefit local communities.

Challenges include limited infrastructure, such as transportation and roads, but Afrocado is working to overcome these barriers. Although they face some logistical hurdles, the company is focusing on promising markets like India, China, and Hong Kong, where they have already established export agreements. They are also considering developing their own brand in the future, although they currently ship unbranded fruit to their customers.

Source: Fresh Plaza