AFA Announces Seasonal Ban on Macadamia Harvesting and Trade to Safeguard Crop Quality

Nairobi, November 10, 2025 — The Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) has announced a temporary nationwide suspension on the harvesting and trade of domestically produced macadamia nuts. The seasonal closure, which will run from December 1, 2025, to February 15, 2026, is aimed at allowing the crop adequate time to mature and ensuring Kenya maintains its global reputation for high-quality macadamia exports.

In a statement issued through the AFA’s Nuts and Oils Directorate, the Authority emphasized that the decision follows findings from a recent macadamia phenological survey conducted across the country’s major production zones. The survey revealed that a significant portion of the crop is still undergoing physiological development and has not yet reached optimal maturity levels.

“The Authority has established that a substantial portion of the crop is still developing. The temporary closure is therefore essential to protect kernel quality, oil content, and shelf life,” the statement read.

According to AFA, the suspension applies to all actors across the macadamia value chain, including processors, exporters, importers, and marketing agents. During this period, no harvesting or trade of locally grown macadamia nuts will be permitted. The Authority reiterated that the existing ban on the export of raw, in-shell macadamia nuts remains in force.

The directive is grounded in the Crops Act of 2013, which mandates AFA to regulate, promote, and develop scheduled crops in Kenya. The Authority’s mandate includes ensuring compliance with quality standards for both domestic and international markets, as well as enforcing regulations to protect the integrity of Kenya’s agricultural exports.

“The seasonal export closure is intended to ensure that all exports meet the required quality standards,” AFA Director General Dr. Bruno Linyiru, OGW, stated. “This measure is necessary to sustain Kenya’s premium position in the global macadamia market.”

AFA has over the years introduced various measures to synchronize harvesting and processing practices with macadamia maturity trends. This includes aligning production timelines to safeguard the kernel’s oil content and prevent premature harvesting, which often results in poor-quality produce and financial losses for farmers.

Kenya remains one of the world’s top producers of macadamia nuts, exporting to leading markets such as the United States, Japan, and Europe. The country’s reputation for superior quality nuts, however, depends heavily on strict adherence to harvesting schedules and quality control standards.

The Authority also confirmed that it will continue to monitor the crop’s maturity trends and communicate any necessary adjustments to the closure period in due course. Stakeholders seeking clarification or further information have been advised to contact AFA through the official email: info@afa.go.ke.

Farmers and processors are encouraged to comply with the directive to avoid penalties and to help maintain Kenya’s standing as a reliable source of premium macadamia nuts.