Rwanda’s avocado season opens with higher volumes and better logistics

RWANDA – Avocados from Rwanda’s new season have started reaching international markets, with Souk Farms shipping its first container on Wednesday.

The company expects this year to be its strongest yet, supported by better logistics and rapidly growing volumes.

Souk Farms CEO Seun Rasheed explained why Rwanda has a special advantage in the avocado trade. He said, “Rwanda enjoys ideal agro-climatic conditions just south of the equator, with fertile volcanic soils, reliable rainfall, and altitudes between 1,800–2,200m that are perfectly suited for avocado cultivation. This enables year-round production potential. Our strategic focus, however, is September to March, when competition from large-volume producers such as Peru, Kenya, and South Africa is lower. This gives Rwanda a distinct advantage as a reliable counter-seasonal supplier.”

The company expects significant growth in output this season. “This year, Rwanda’s volumes are ramping up significantly, with a projected increase of 200–300% compared to last season. New orchards established three years ago by the likes of Souk Farms are now entering production. We expect national exports to exceed 10,000 tonnes next season. This marks the beginning of a steep growth curve for Rwanda’s avocado industry, which is expected to surpass 25,000 tonnes by 2027,” Rasheed said.

Improved quality and logistics

Rasheed described this year’s fruit as among the best so far. “This season’s crop is showing excellent quality with steadily improving sizes. Whereas three years ago the average was 20–26, we are now consistently seeing 18–22, with expectations to move to 16–20 in the coming year. Beyond sizes, the fruit has strong oil content and high dry matter, giving superior eating quality,” he said.

Exporters also welcome progress in transport. “Logistics has improved considerably this year thanks to close collaboration with Maersk and other partners. Transit times to Europe are now 37 days to Rotterdam and London, 30 days to Algeciras, and just 17 days to Dubai. Kigali’s growing logistics hub and dedicated reefer capacity give us confidence in timely delivery,” Rasheed said.

Souk Farms is channeling most of its produce to Europe and the Middle East. “Demand for Rwandan avocados is growing rapidly, particularly in premium markets across Europe and the Middle East. Souk remains focused on these regions, where quality and consistency are rewarded with stronger netbacks. Our novelty lies in Rwanda’s story, smaller, cleaner orchards, strong sustainability credentials, and a unique counter-seasonal position,” Rasheed added.

Regional developments

Rwanda’s growth comes at a time of shifting dynamics in Africa’s avocado industry. Morocco has overtaken South Africa to become the continent’s second-largest exporter, shipping a record 100,000 tons in the 2024/2025 season.

A report by Rabobank noted that Morocco’s exports rose by 67 percent compared to the previous year, well ahead of earlier forecasts.

The country now benefits from expanded growing areas and its proximity to Europe, which shortens delivery times and reduces costs.

Meanwhile, Ethiopia is laying ground for future expansion. The government announced plans to increase avocado farming land from 30,000 to 150,000 hectares within five years. This signals Africa’s wider push to secure a stronger position in the global avocado market.

Sign up to receive our email newsletters with the latest news updates and insights from Africa and the World HERE.