Govt Statement on Prohibition of Export of Raw Macadamia Nuts in Kenya

Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) wishes to notify the public and stakeholders that the export of raw macadamia nuts (in-shell and unprocessed macadamia nuts, whether wet or dry) is prohibited under Kenyan laws.

In recent weeks, several consignments of raw macadamia nuts alleged to be in transit through Kenya have been intercepted at various border points. These interceptions are in line with Kenya's continued enforcement of the Crops Act, 2013 and the Crops (Nuts and Oil Crops) Regulations, 2020, which aim to safeguard the local nut processing industry and promote value addition within the country.

The Authority emphasizes that no raw macadamia nuts may be exported through or from Kenya, regardless of country of origin. Exporters from foreign states intending to trade in raw macadamia are therefore advised to use alternative foreign ports of exit and to refrain from routing raw macadamia produce through Kenya.

This measure aims to support local farmers and processors by promoting domestic value addition through local processing and industrial development.

Any member of the public and stakeholder who require any clarification may contact the Authority through info@afa.go.ke.

Dr. Bruno Linyiru, OGW
DIRECTOR GENERAL