Tanzania Targets 235,000 Tons of Avocados as Export Strategy Gains Pace
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Tanzania is ramping up its horticulture ambitions, targeting avocado production of 235,000 tons by the 2026/27 season, up from 201,354 tons recorded in 2024/25.
Presenting the agriculture budget to parliament, Agriculture Minister Daniel Chongolo said export volumes are expected to reach 40,000 tons as the country strengthens its position in global avocado markets.
Scaling production and skills
The expansion programme focuses on capacity building and improved farming practices. The government plans to train 9,500 farmers and 500 extension officers on modern avocado production techniques.
In partnership with the Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute and the Consolidated Project for Reaching Avocado Markets, authorities will also produce and distribute more than 1.7 million subsidised seedlings, targeting youth and women farmers.
“This initiative is not only about boosting production but also about creating decent employment opportunities,” Chongolo said.
Strengthening value chains
To support market access, the government will construct 20 avocado collection centres in key growing regions, including Mbeya, Iringa, Rukwa, Ruvuma and Njombe. These facilities are expected to improve aggregation, quality control and export readiness.
Tanzania is also expanding processing capacity, particularly in avocado oil production. The country currently operates eight medium- to large-scale processing facilities, with further growth expected as output increases.
Riding global demand
The strategy aligns with rising global demand for avocados, driven by increasing consumption in health-conscious and premium food markets. The global avocado market, valued at around $15.6 billion in 2022, is projected to reach $30 billion by 2030.
Outlook
The avocado push forms part of Tanzania’s broader plan to diversify horticultural exports beyond traditional crops such as cashews.
If successfully implemented, the programme could boost export earnings, create jobs and position Tanzania as a competitive player in the global avocado value chain.
