The Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) has ordered the closure of avocado harvesting for sea exports from October 30, 2026, citing low production volumes and warning exporters and processors against violating the seasonal restrictions.

The closure affects Hass, Fuerte, Pinkerton and Jumbo avocado varieties, with the authority saying a countrywide survey found that current production in major growing areas was insufficient to support sea shipments.

“The survey findings are that current production volumes are low and insufficient for sea shipment,” the authority said.

However, exports of the four varieties by air will continue, subject to inspection and the provision of traceability details for each consignment.

In a notice to avocado and mango exporters, importers and processors, AFA, through its Horticultural Crops Directorate, said the restrictions followed an assessment of current production patterns and forecasts for the next main season.

The closure will also apply to avocado oil processors. Those holding oil stocks intended for export during the restricted period must seek verification from the directorate by Monday, November 2, 2026.

AFA said only oil stocks verified in advance would be cleared for export during the closure.

The authority has also stopped the importation of avocado fruit for oil processing, saying the measure is intended to prevent traders from harvesting immature local avocados and presenting them as imported produce.

The directorate said it would continue monitoring avocado maturity patterns and issue further guidance when necessary.

AFA has separately warned mango exporters against mixing mango consignments with avocados for sea shipment to circumvent the seasonal restrictions.

The authority said some exporters had combined the two fruits in consignments, contrary to Section 20(5) of the Crops (Horticultural Crops) Regulations, 2020.

Under the guidelines, consignments seeking mango export permits must contain only mango fruits.

Exporters must apply for physical inspection through the Horticultural Crops Directorate and provide the location of the pack house to facilitate the process.

AFA said all produce destined for export must undergo inspection before an export certificate is issued.

It warned that exporters and avocado oil processors who violate the guidelines risk having their export licences revoked.

Permits will also not be issued for consignments initiated contrary to the restrictions.