Kostiv Tanzania Group recently showcased its Hass and Fuerte avocados, grown in Tanzania's Southern Highlands, at the Fruit Attraction 2026 event in Madrid, Spain. The event, which took place from October 6 to 8, brought together growers, exporters, and buyers in the fresh-produce industry. The exhibition provided an opportunity for the company to promote its avocados to international buyers, including importers, wholesalers, and retailers. This effort aims to expand Tanzania's avocado export markets.
Tanzania's avocado industry has experienced significant growth in recent years. According to data, avocado production reached approximately 203,473 tonnes in the 2025/26 season, up from 149,340 tonnes five years earlier. The country's avocado exports have also increased, rising to around 52,000 tonnes and earning $97.2 million in the 2025/26 season, compared to $44.2 million in 2020/21. This growth has positioned Tanzania as a potential major player in the global avocado market.
Petro Richard Kostiv, founder and chief executive of Kostiv Tanzania Group, emphasized the need for Tanzania to promote its produce more actively to compete internationally. He noted that the country has the climate, land, and people to become a stronger supplier, but buyers need to see and understand what Tanzania can offer. Kostiv highlighted the importance of building confidence with international buyers by meeting their expectations for consistency, reliability, and fruit quality.
Fruit Attraction 2026 provided a platform for Kostiv Tanzania Group to engage with international buyers and discuss supply volumes, quality standards, delivery schedules, and market requirements. The event allowed the company to showcase its avocados and demonstrate its capabilities to potential buyers. Kostiv emphasized that meeting international buyers' requirements depends on coordination across the supply chain, from orchard management to transportation.
Kostiv Tanzania Group operates Hass avocado orchards in Njombe and works with trained smallholder farmers through its export network. The company recognizes the need to support farmers with practical training, quality planting materials, and clear information about market requirements. This support is crucial for farmers to benefit from growing export demand and for the company to ensure a consistent supply of high-quality avocados.
Logistics play a critical role in expanding access to European markets, where shipping schedules and temperature management affect the quality of perishable produce. Kostiv emphasized that reliable deliveries and stronger commercial relationships will be essential to securing repeat orders and sustaining Tanzania's avocado export growth. The company aims to commit to volumes it can supply and communicate promptly with buyers when challenges threaten delivery schedules.
The growth of Tanzania's avocado industry has significant potential to contribute to the country's economy. With the right support and investment, the sector can continue to expand, creating opportunities for farmers, exporters, and other stakeholders. As Kostiv Tanzania Group continues to promote its avocados internationally, the company is likely to play a key role in shaping the future of Tanzania's avocado export industry.
Key points
- Tanzania's avocado production reached approximately 203,473 tonnes in the 2025/26 season.
- The country's avocado exports earned $97.2 million in the 2025/26 season.
- Kostiv Tanzania Group showcased its Hass and Fuerte avocados at Fruit Attraction 2026 in Madrid, Spain.
