Kenya gears up for AFPEX 2025 as global fresh produce demand surge
KENYA – Nairobi will welcome key players in Africa’s fresh produce industry from July 2 to 4, 2025, when the Africa Fresh Produce Expo (AFPEX) opens its doors at the Sarit Expo Centre.
The three-day event, organised by FW Africa, is set to draw more than 8,000 participants, including farmers, exporters, technology providers, government officials and investors from across Africa and beyond.
AFPEX has become the region’s leading trade show for fresh and packaged produce including fruits, vegetables, spices and herbs. The event also features agro-chemicals, farm equipment, cold chain logistics, packaging, financial services and agricultural training programs.
“This year’s AFPEX comes at a time when Africa’s fresh produce sector is attracting serious attention from global buyers and investors,” said Francis Juma, CEO and Founder of FW Africa.
“We’re not just showcasing mangoes and avocados, we’re showcasing innovation, market readiness, and the resilience of African producers. Our goal is to connect African growers with the right markets and the right tools to scale.”
AFPEX 2025 will also run alongside the 10th edition of AFMASS Food Manufacturing Expo giving attendees access to overlapping markets and business opportunities.
Connecting growers with global markets
The exhibition will feature over 100 sponsors and exhibitors from more than 30 countries, showcasing the latest tools and technologies for farmers and agribusinesses.
It offers a platform for buyers, traders and distributors to source produce directly from African growers while discussing market access, standards and supply chain needs.
At the heart of the expo lies its focus on linking Africa’s growers with buyers from local, regional and international markets. “We’re seeing more African produce reach new markets,” said Juma. “This platform gives farmers and businesses the exposure they need to compete globally.”
The value of Kenya’s fruit exports rose by 26.5 percent in 2024 to Sh41 billion (US$317 million), with volumes increasing to 225,400 tonnes. Analysts expect the country’s vegetable exports to generate US$6.93 billion in revenue in 2025, with steady growth through to 2030.
Kenya’s location, improved air and sea logistics, and access to European, Middle Eastern and Asian markets make it a strong hub for fresh produce exports.
Focus on sustainability and innovation
Sustainability will be a key theme at this year’s expo. One recent example comes from Fresh Del Monte Produce, which invested US$10 million in Kenya in early 2025 to launch a biofertilizer production facility.
The company is converting pineapple residues into organic fertilizer, helping local farmers improve soil fertility while cutting down on waste.
“Sustainability and technology go hand in hand,” said Juma. “We want to highlight the solutions that work for both farmers and the environment.”
The expo will also address the growing importance of cold chain logistics and mobility. Many exporters have reported rising air freight costs due to increased demand for cargo space.
This has made investments in efficient cold storage, transport infrastructure and digital supply chain tools even more urgent.
Meeting export standards
To protect its fresh produce exports, Kenya has taken steps to improve compliance with international regulations. The Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (Kephis) recently introduced updated pest control protocols to match European Union standards.
These changes aim to keep Kenya’s produce market stable and competitive on the world stage.
“Quality is no longer optional,” Juma noted. “If we want to grow our exports, we must meet and maintain the standards of the markets we’re serving.”
AFPEX is also drawing interest from development partners, research institutions and NGOs working to improve food security and agricultural incomes across the continent.
The event provides a platform for farmers to engage directly with service providers, policymakers and international partners.
To participate,
Delegates, sponsors, and exhibitors can register through the official event website:
To attend AFPEX 2025:
www.africafreshproduceexpo.com/attend/
To sponsor or exhibit at the event:
www.africafreshproduceexpo.com/sponsor/
As Nairobi prepares to host thousands of delegates, exhibitors and visitors, Juma summed up the event’s broader significance: “AFPEX is where serious business meets real opportunity. It’s where Africa’s agricultural future is shaped, not just by what we grow, but how we grow it and who we grow it for.”
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