China is contemplating to open its market for Kenyan Avocados. A team of Chinese experts proposes to undertake field visits during the avocado harvesting season according to Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (Kephis). The team will review orchard management, picking, packaging, and certification system of the fruit.
Esther Kimani, Managing director, said that Kephis had received many requests for export of avocado to China since 2011. Subsequently, it applied for market access in April 2011 to the General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection, and Quarantine of China (Chinese National Plant Protection Organisation (NPPO). Before placing the orders, the Chinese NPPO wanted information on Kenya’s risk mitigation measures to ensure the avocados were free of harmful pests. If Chinese Avocado market opens up for Kenya, it will be a massive opportunity. Kenya is also exploring the huge demand for stevia, a plant used for calorie-free sweetener in China
