Rwandan avocado sector pivots to China as EU, UK markets face supply glut
China aligns well with Rwanda’s projected increase in avocado output.
RWANDA – Rwandan avocado exporters are turning to China as an alternative destination following disruptions to global trade linked to the Middle East conflict, with European and UK markets facing a supply surge from South Africa and Kenya.
Pacifique Nshimiyimana, Chairperson of the Avocado Society of Rwanda, said farmers are struggling to secure markets for premium fruit while rising transport costs limit local processors’ ability to offer competitive prices.
“This situation is further worsened by declining demand, as EU and UK markets are experiencing a surge in avocado supplies from other major exporters such as South Africa and Kenya, creating additional pressure across the entire value chain,” he said.
Traditional export corridors to Europe and the Middle East have become less reliable due to shipping disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz, rising freight costs, and intensified competition. China’s large population and zero-tariff policy under bilateral trade agreements offer a strategic alternative.
Additionally, China aligns well with Rwanda’s projected increase in avocado output. “Many of our productive trees are expected to at least double in number and yield within the next two years,” Nshimiyimana said.
Access to China is part of the avocado commercialization strategy, supported by the government and the National Agriculture Export Development Board. The sector is also working on contract farming models to strengthen supply consistency and improve access to finance.
“Such investment is essential to support quality assurance systems and the adoption of Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), which are critical requirements for accessing and competing in high-standard markets like China,” Nshimiyimana added.
Robert Rukundo, Chairperson of the Horticulture Exporters Association of Rwanda, said, “Rwanda needs to invest in better market research to understand demand and the requirements for accessing different markets. Exports should be made less risky through supportive policies and incentives, such as promotional freight rates. Improving infrastructure, especially cold chain systems and logistics, will be critical to maintaining product quality and competitiveness in distant markets,” Rukundo said.
The sector’s shift toward China, supported by favourable trade agreements, offers a vital alternative for exporters facing saturated European markets and shipping disruptions.
Grace Mbabazi, Managing Director of M&M Sozo Ltd, said trade relations between Rwanda and China support the export business.
As Rwandan avocado yields are expected to double within two years, securing reliable, high-volume markets such as China will be essential to absorb increased production.
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