Tanzania targets 235,000 tons of avocados by 2026/27 with 1.7 million seedlings
The programme is part of a broader strategy to expand horticultural exports beyond cashews.
TANZANIA – Tanzania plans to increase avocado production to 235,000 tons by the 2026/27 season, up from 201,354 tons in 2024/25, with export volumes projected to reach 40,000 tons.
Agriculture Minister Daniel Chongolo announced the targets while presenting the ministry’s budget to the National Assembly, outlining a comprehensive programme covering seedling distribution, training, and infrastructure development.
“To realize this target, the ministry will train 9,500 farmers and 500 extension officers on good agricultural practices for avocado production,” Chongolo said.
The initiative involves collaboration between the Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute and the Consolidated Project for Reaching Avocado Markets.
In addition, more than 1.7 million avocado seedlings will be produced and distributed through a subsidy programme targeting youth and women. “This initiative is not only about boosting avocado production but also about creating decent employment opportunities for young people through agriculture,” Chongolo said.
More importantly, a system will be implemented to oversee seedling preparation, distribution, and management.
On the other hand, the long-term potential of avocado processing and oil production is significant. Tanzania currently has eight medium- and large-scale processing facilities, with expansion expected to accompany production growth.
Avocado oil commands premium prices in international markets and offers a longer shelf life than fresh fruit, easing logistics for distant exports.
Furthermore, global demand for avocados is continuing to rise, with the market valued at approximately US$15.6 billion in 2022 and projected to reach US$30 billion by 2030.
The programme is part of a broader strategy to expand horticultural exports beyond cashews. By targeting youth and women for employment and providing training and extension services, the initiative seeks to modernize the nation’s horticultural sector while reducing reliance on traditional crops.
The government’s emphasis on infrastructure for collection centres will be critical to maintaining fruit quality and consistency for international buyers. For instance, export volumes are projected to reach 40,000 tons, with eight processing facilities already in operation and expansion expected to accompany production growth.
As production scales towards 235,000 tons, the country is positioning itself to capture a larger share of the US$30 billion global avocado market, projected by 2030. The programme is part of a broader strategy to expand horticultural exports beyond cashews.
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