NAIROBI, Kenya, Aug 25 – Kenya’s avocado export season is increasing demand for refrigerated containers, trucks and shipping capacity as exporters move more produce to international markets, according to Maersk.
The Danish shipping and logistics company said agricultural exports from Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania continued to support activity across East Africa’s logistics sector in July.
In Kenya, the increase in avocado exports has particularly raised demand for refrigerated containers and transport services needed to move the perishable produce.
Maersk is advising exporters to book shipping and transport services early to avoid delays caused by limited equipment and trucking capacity.
“Customers are encouraged to book early, particularly for refrigerated cargo and exports, and to provide early visibility of anticipated volumes to support equipment and transport planning,” Maersk said.
The company said it is monitoring the availability of refrigerated containers and working with trucking and shipping partners to manage the increased demand.
It expects demand to remain high through August, with delivery times potentially affected by equipment shortages, trucking capacity and performance at ports and border points.
Kenya’s avocado season comes as Uganda’s Arabica coffee exports are also increasing demand for inland transport and logistics services.
Maersk said logistics operators are also dealing with port and depot congestion, disruptions to its Middle East network and new customs requirements in Kenya.
The Kenya Revenue Authority’s Advance Cargo Declaration (ACD) system became operational on August 3, requiring applicable containerised cargo destined for Kenyan ports to obtain an ACD reference code before loading.
The system is intended to give customs authorities cargo and shipment information in advance, although it adds another documentation requirement for importers and exporters.
Maersk said businesses are increasingly seeking integrated logistics and warehousing services to reduce supply chain risks and improve distribution.
For Kenyan avocado exporters, the combination of seasonal demand, limited refrigerated equipment, transport capacity and changing customs requirements is making early planning increasingly important.
Maersk said it expects exporters to remain flexible with shipping schedules and ensure cargo and documentation are ready as demand increases.
