State authorizes export of raw macadamia nuts for a period of 30 days
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The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development has granted authorization for the export of raw (in-shell) macadamia nuts for a period of 30 days, starting December 4, 2024. This move allows exporters to fulfill pending orders for macadamia nuts that were yet to be processed.
The announcement was made by Agriculture and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary (CS) Dr. Andrew Karanja, who clarified that on November 3, 2023, the ministry had lifted a ban on the export of raw macadamia nuts for a 12-month period, set to end on November 2, 2024. This 30-day extension is a temporary measure aimed at addressing unfulfilled export orders.
Between November 3 and November 9, 2024, the Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA), through its Nuts and Oil Crops Directorate, conducted a verification exercise to assess the stocks of raw macadamia nuts held by licensed processors, exporters, and marketing agents. The results of the exercise revealed that some exporters still had stocks of raw macadamia nuts in their possession, along with outstanding export orders that needed to be completed.
In light of these findings, Dr. Karanja, exercising his powers under Section 43 of the Agriculture and Food Authority Act of 2013, authorized the 30-day export period. This decision enables the exporters who have verified stocks to clear their backlogs.
The CS further explained that licensed exporters who wish to take advantage of this authorization must apply in writing to the AFA’s Nuts and Oil Crops Directorate. The application should include a completed and signed stock verification form. This requirement ensures that only verified stocks held by exporters will be eligible for export under the 30-day extension.
“This intervention will allow verified stocks held by various exporters to be cleared for export,” Dr. Karanja stated. The authorization provides a practical solution for exporters to meet their commitments while also supporting the continuity of the macadamia nut industry, which plays an essential role in Kenya’s agricultural sector.
By extending the export window, the government aims to balance the needs of exporters who have contractual obligations with the broader objective of ensuring the sustainability of the local macadamia industry. This move will also help clear existing stockpiles that could otherwise have remained unsold, benefiting both local producers and the country’s economy.
The macadamia nut industry in Kenya is an important sector, with significant export potential. The government’s decision to allow this 30-day export window is seen as a positive step in supporting both the export market and local macadamia nut farmers who depend on a robust and thriving export sector. With the extended deadline, Kenyan exporters will be able to fulfill their outstanding orders, ensuring that the industry continues to grow while meeting international demand.
This move aligns with the government’s ongoing efforts to promote agricultural exports and to ensure that local farmers and exporters remain competitive in the global market. Through interventions like these, the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development is working to ensure the continued success and sustainability of key agricultural exports like macadamia nuts.
The next steps will involve the relevant authorities closely monitoring the export process to ensure compliance with all regulations and to prevent the possibility of stockpiles being misused or diverted. With these measures in place, the government hopes to maintain a well-regulated export process that supports both economic growth and the interests of local producers.
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