Africa's two key avocado-exporting countries have recorded a combined 20.5% year-on-year fall in shipments to Europe in the season to week 30 (Jul. 29).

Statistics released by the South African Avocado Growers’ Association, show the drop was largely driven by the country's 28.3% fall to 4.558 million 4kg pallets for the season to date.

Last month the association's CEO Derek Donkin told www.freshfruitportal.com the country's national crop had fallen by 40% this season following hail storms in late 2010.

In contrast Kenya's output was more positive with growth of 4.2% to 2.003 million cartons, while the highland country's avocado exports are expected to grow 3.8% in total this year to 2.988 million cartons.

In terms of market competition, Peruvian figures have not yet been released but it is expected they have increased by 4.5% to  9.334 million cartons in the season so far.

Chile and Mexico are expected to begin avocado exports to Europe in week 36, with forecast total shipments of 8.622 million cartons and 1.738 million cartons respectively.

Photo: Season Harvest

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