Efforts are ongoing to encourage stronger Nigerian participation in the global avocado market, which is set to reach $17.56 billion this year. The market, valued at $16.24 billion last year, is projected to expand to $23.29 billion by 2029.
The World Avocado Organisation's data shows increasing avocado consumption in Europe, with France leading at 160,000 tons, a 6.67% increase year-on-year. Germany experienced growth from 110,000 tons in 2023 to 120,000 tons in 2024. Overall, European avocado sales volumes rose by 13.2%, indicating a strong dependency on imports due to restrained domestic production capacities. Amidst this scenario, African nations are emerging as key contributors.
Kenya remains a leading African exporter, with USDA predictions of a 6.3% rise in exports by 2025, potentially reaching 135,000 tons. Meanwhile, Morocco exported 56,700 tons, amassing $179 million, a 25% growth over the previous season. In contrast, Nigeria's production largely caters to local demand, as highlighted by the Avocado Society of Nigeria's President, Ambassador Adeniyi Sola-Bunmi. "Nigerians are simply not investing in avocado farming on a commercial scale, largely due to the perceived long gestation period for fruiting," he states.
Sola-Bunmi emphasizes introducing robust Hass avocado seedlings from Mexico and Kenya to Nigeria, declaring, "I believe this variety of avocado can thrive in Nigeria." This variety's rapid maturity rate makes it appealing for Nigerian growers. Additionally, the Avocado Society of Nigeria is establishing commercial Hass farms across Nigerian states, intending to meet global market demands efficiently.
Source: The Nation