The Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) has banned the harvesting and trade in domestically produced macadamia nuts from the 1st of December 2025 to the 15th of February 2026 to curb trade in premature nuts.
The seasonal export closure is intended to allow adequate time for the crop to attain full maturity and to ensure that all exports meet the required quality standards.
In a press statement, AFA Director General, Dr. Bruno Linyiru said they had notified all value chain actors, who are not limited to processors, exporters, importers, and marketing agents.
Dr Linyiru said the ban on the export of raw, in-shell macadamia nuts also remains in force.
He noted that following the findings of a recent macadamia phenological survey conducted across the main production zones, the Authority has established that a substantial portion of nuts was not ready for harvesting and thus needed ample time to mature.
“Through the Nuts and Oils Directorate, we have been implementing measures to align harvesting and processing practices with macadamia maturity trends to safeguard kernel quality, oil content, and shelf life, essential to sustaining Kenya’s reputation for premium macadamia quality,” he said.
Dr. Linyiru said the Authority will continue to monitor the crops’ maturity trends, adding he will communicate any necessary adjustments to the closure period in due course.
AFA was established under the Crops Act 2013 to develop, promote, and regulate scheduled crops in Kenya and ensure effective enforcement of sector regulations for compliance with established produce and product quality standards for both domestic and international markets.
Kenya is a major global producer of macadamia nuts, ranking third in world production.
Besides, the country nuts are of very high quality and thus valued globally.
The crop is primarily grown in the central and coastal regions, with leading counties including Embu, Meru, Kiambu and Murang’a.
The industry has grown significantly, creating jobs and contributing to economic growth, though it faces challenges like immature nut harvesting and government regulations to manage the sector and stabilise prices.
By Wangari Ndirangu
