Kenya imposes seasonal halt on harvest, trade of macadamia nuts
According to a recent phenological survey covering Kenya’s main macadamia production zones, a large part of the crop is still maturing.
Kenya will temporarily halt the harvesting and trade of domestically produced macadamia nuts from December 1, 2025, to February 15, 2026, the Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) has announced.
The move aims to allow the crop to reach full maturity and maintain Kenya’s reputation for high-quality macadamia nuts in both local and international markets.
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The AFA, established under the Crops Act 2013, is responsible for developing, promoting, and regulating scheduled crops across the country.
Through its Nuts and Oils Directorate, the authority has been closely monitoring macadamia growth and processing practices to ensure optimal kernel quality, oil content, and shelf life.
According to a recent phenological survey covering Kenya’s main macadamia production zones, a large part of the crop is still maturing.
“This closure is necessary to guarantee that only fully developed nuts enter the market, preserving the premium quality for which Kenyan macadamia is known,” the AFA said in a statement on Monday.
The authority has directed all macadamia stakeholders - including processors, exporters, importers, and marketing agents - to comply with the closure.
The ban also continues to apply to the export of raw, in-shell macadamia nuts.
Dr Bruno Linyiru, AFA Director General, emphasised the authority’s commitment to supporting the industry.
“We will continue to monitor maturity trends and communicate any changes to the closure period in good time,” he said.
Stakeholders seeking clarification on the seasonal ban can reach out to the authority at [email protected].
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