Tanzania becomes Africa’s third-largest avocado producer as trade reforms improve trade transparency
Comparing Tanzania’s trajectory with those of South Africa and Kenya reveals both progress and the distance still to be covered.
TANZANIA – Tanzania’s avocado sector has expanded rapidly, with production estimated at 190,000 tons annually and export volumes projected to exceed 35,000 tons for the 2025/26 season, driven by government measures to regulate and formalize the supply chain.
The country now ranks as Africa’s third-largest avocado producer after South Africa and Kenya, with output increasing by 20% to 30%annually over the past five years.
Frank Mwankenja, an avocado grower in Rungwe District, confirmed that trading conditions have improved significantly following regulatory interventions. “The registration of buyers and agents has reduced theft and irregular trading practices,” he said. “Farmers are now able to sell to registered traders, improving transparency in transactions.”
In addition, the Grain and Mixed Crops Regulatory Authority now oversee buyer registration, enhancing accountability across the value chain.
Export volumes have climbed steadily, rising from 17,700 tons (US$51 million) in 2021/22 to nearly 26,800 tons (US$77.3 million) in 2022/23, reaching 31,950 tons in 2023/24. For the current season, exports are projected to exceed 35,000 tons, supported by strong demand in Europe and India.
Rungwe District, along with Kyela and parts of Njombe, remains a key production area for Hass avocados, with growing conditions at elevations between 400 and 2,500 metres supporting high-quality fruit.
However, despite growth, infrastructure gaps remain. Post-harvest losses linked to handling and storage continue to affect small-holder producers.
On the other hand, compliance with international standards, including GlobalGAP, is required for access to premium destinations in Europe, India, and the Middle East.
Moreover, the national avocado guidelines introduced in 2026 aim to standardize production and support market access, but their long-term effectiveness will depend on implementation and enforcement.
Comparing Tanzania’s trajectory with those of South Africa and Kenya reveals both progress and the distance still to be covered.
Firstly, South Africa’s established cold chain networks and long-term buyer relationships give it an advantage in terms of consistency and volume. On the other hand, Kenya benefits from proximity to European markets and a more developed horticulture export infrastructure.
In that regard, Tanzania’s annual growth rate of 20% to 30% exceeds that of its competitors, suggesting that if infrastructure investments keep pace, the country could narrow the gap within a decade.
As regulatory reforms take hold and export volumes rise, Tanzania is emerging as a global contender in the avocado trade, supported by favourable growing conditions and improving supply chain accountability.
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