TANZANIA – Tanzania has witnessed a remarkable surge in avocado exports to various destinations becoming the third-largest avocado producer in Africa, after South Africa and Kenya.
In 2021 alone, the country exported 11,237 tons of avocados, valued at USD 33 million, marking a notable 12.6% increase from the previous year.
Furthermore, according to the Tanzania Horticultural Association (TAHA) the exports have soared from 17,711 metric tons worth USD 51 million in 2020/2021 to 26,826 metric tons in 2022/2023, earning the economy a staggering USD 77 million.
Expanding into key markets across Europe, Africa, and Asia, Tanzania is also finalizing negotiations with South Africa to further extend its avocado exports.
Additionally, the country has successfully entered the markets of China and India, contributing substantially to its foreign currency earnings.
Projections indicate a promising trajectory, with Tanzania expected to export 15,000 tons of avocados in 2023, generating USD 45 million.
“Through diplomatic efforts and trade agreements, President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration has opened up new markets for Tanzanian produce,” stated TAHA CEO, Ms. Jacqueline Mkindi on how the growth is because of the collaborative effort between the government and the private sector.
“This has allowed thousands of local farmers and businesses to benefit from a broader consumer base and increased export opportunities,”
The success can further be attributed to the government’s generous tax relief on sorting, grading and packing technology for fruits and vegetables.
The avocado boom in Tanzania is not confined to large-scale commercial production alone. While companies like Rungwe Avocado Company Ltd and Africado Ltd play a significant role, smallholder farmers across regions such as Mbeya, Njombe, Songwe, Iringa, Kilimanjaro, Arusha, and Tanga also contribute substantially to the industry.
Cultivating varieties including Hass, Fuerte, Pinkerton, and Puebla, these farmers form the backbone of Tanzania’s avocado sector.
These achievements underscore Tanzania’s commitment to diversifying its agricultural exports and harnessing opportunities in global markets.
With avocado production and exports on the rise, Tanzania is poised for continued growth and success in the avocado industry.
Christopher Magomba, CEO of the Tanzania National Chamber of Commerce and Industries (TNCCI), emphasizes the significance of this growth trajectory: “Tanzania’s avocado sector is witnessing unprecedented expansion, driven by both large-scale enterprises and smallholder farmers.”
“This surge in exports not only boosts our economy but also highlights Tanzania’s potential as a key player in the global avocado market.”
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