The world can’t get enough avocados, and South Africa is capitalising on the soaring demand for this popular superfruit.

Exports have increased by 63% over the past decade, according to the SA Avocado Growers’ Association. About 74,4000 tonnes of avocados were exported last year, just 9,500 shy of 2018’s record. ITC figures show the value of exports has more than tripled since 2012, reaching R1.63-billion in 2021.

South Africa is one of the top 10 exporters of the fruit globally and the second-biggest in Africa, after Kenya. Africa produces about 12% of the world’s avocados.

While Europe is a major importer of SA avocados, other markets are opening up. In the past 10 months, agreements have been put in place with India, China and Japan. Official shipments were expected to start mid-year.