No export or transit of raw macadamia nuts, AFA says

The Agriculture and Food Authority has placed an embargo on export or use of Kenya as a transit corridor for macadamia nuts.

AFA Director General Dr Bruno Linyiru says the ban has been placed following interception of a number of consignments of raw macadamia nuts at various border points.

“AFA wishes to notify the general public and stakeholders that export of raw macadamia nuts (in-shell and unprocessed macadamia nuts, whether wet or dry) is prohibited under Kenyan law,” said Linyiru in a statement.

According to authority the ban affects locally produced macadamia nuts as well as those being shipped through Kenya.

“Exporters from foreign states intending to trade in raw macadamia nuts are therefore advised to use alternative foreign ports of exit and to refrain from rerouting raw macadamia produce through Kenya,” He warned.

Linyiru backs the move to place export restrictions on raw macadamia nuts to further support local farmers and processors and enhance value addition in the value chain.