Zambian avocado growers are negotiating with South African buyers to export Hass avocado to South Africa. Avocado Growers Association of Zambia (AGAZ) chairperson Smart Lungu says local farmers can produce 40 000 tons of avocado to satisfy the demand in South Africa.

“Negotiations to export to South Africa are advanced. We are looking at initially exporting 2 000 per annum,” Lungu said.

He said more than 220 farmers are expected to benefit from the exports to South Africa. “Farmers would have sustainable income growing avocados, since it matures fast,” Lungu said.

Zambia’s tropical climate is ideal for growing Hass avocado, a medium-sized berry weighing 200-300g. Thanks to its taste, size, shelf-life, high growing yield and in some areas, year-round harvesting, the Hass cultivar is the most popular commercial avocado worldwide.

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