Zimbabwe's avocado industry has crossed the US$1 million export mark within the first four months of 2026, underlining the growing importance of horticulture as the country pushes to diversify export earnings and unlock new international markets.

Latest figures show avocado exports reached 1,74 million kilogrammes valued at US$1,07 million between January and April this year, compared to 921 056kg worth US$397 007 during the same period last year

The performance represents an 89 percent increase in export volumes and a significant jump in export value, making avocados one of Zimbabwe's fastest-growing horticultural export products.

The strong start places the 2026 season ahead of both 2024 and 2025.

By April this year, exports had already reached 1,26 million kilogrammes, surpassing the 1,05 million kilogrammes exported during the same period in 2024 and the 702 290 kilogrammes recorded by April 2025.

April 2026 also registered the highest avocado export volume for the month over the last three years.

The growth comes as Zimbabwe seeks to strengthen horticulture exports and increase foreign currency inflows from high-value agricultural products.

Zimbabwe Avocado Growers Association (ZAGA) said the industry remains on course to achieve its export targets.

"Zimbabwe avocado picking season is now well underway, with the estimated export targets of 5,000 tons well in our sights," ZAGA said.

Industry stakeholders said  the latest figures reflect increased investment, improved orchard management and growing international demand for Zimbabwean produce.

Tapiwanashe Mangwiro said avocados had become a strategic export commodity.

"Avocados have become a flagship export product within the horticultural segment," Mangwiro said.

The crop is increasingly being viewed as one of the products capable of driving growth within Zimbabwe's horticultural industry.

Horticultural Development Council chief executive officer Linda Nielsen said the sector has ambitious expansion plans.

"The HDC outlined a vision to build a US$2,5 billion industry by 2030, positioning avocados as the sector's 'green gold'," Nielsen said.

The industry's prospects received a major boost after Zimbabwe secured access to the Chinese market, one of the world's largest avocado import destinations.

Nielsen said the development could transform the industry's growth trajectory.

"The signing of this protocol delivers a significant opportunity for Zimbabwe to take advantage of the vast Chinese market. It will require strategic intent to meet the strict requirements of the Chinese market. Horticulture producers are ready to discuss investment requirements," she said.

China imports approximately 66 000 tonnes of avocados annually, valued at around US$151 million.

Zimbabwe is now the fourth African country to meet China's strict avocado export requirements alongside Kenya, Tanzania and South Africa.

The opening of the Chinese market is expected to attract fresh investment into production, processing, logistics and cold-chain infrastructure.

According to the Zimbabwe Avocado Growers Association, commercial avocado production started in the late 1980s, with Chipinge remaining the country's main production hub.

The association said sustained investment has transformed Zimbabwe into one of Africa's leading avocado producers

"This has made Zimbabwe the fifth largest producer on the continent," ZAGA said.

"Zimbabwe has emerged as Africa's fifth-largest producer of avocados, following a 164 percent surge in production over the past six years, thanks to increased investment," the association added.