Abstract:
Standards and certification are key requirements for exports to some destination markets in the world. This
requirement cuts across both farmers and exporters who intend to service the export market. Avocado is among the
export fruit which calls for a farmer or exporting company to acquire certificates required in international markets.
This study investigated the Impact of Standards and Certification on Avocado exports in Tanzania. Specifically, the
study analyzed the challenges associated with standards and certification in avocado export in Tanzania. The study
used descriptive survey design and adopted a mixed research approach. Purposive sampling technique was used to
obtain 30 respondents. Instruments of data collection were questionnaires and structured Interview guide.
Quantitative data from questionnaires were analyzed using descriptive statistics for frequency, percentage,
standard deviation and mean to determine the average of respondents’ responses. The study found out that
Commercial avocado farming provides an avenue to successfully diversify Tanzania’s portfolio of horticultural
crops, thereby enhancing the value of the horticultural industry. The study also found out that there are very few
companies that are involved in the process of standard and certification and the farmers couldn’t afford to pay for
the process individually thus until they form group. The avocado value chain reveals profound capacity challenges
all the way from the input procurement to farming, processing, packaging, retailing and marketing as well as
product quality standards. Overcoming these challenges requires keeping up with the constantly changing
agribusiness ecosystem. The study recommends for the need for close coordination between agribusiness-related
line ministries, including the Ministries of Agriculture, Industry Trade and Investment, Environment, and their
concerned agencies such as the TBS, Tanzania Revenue Authority to improve the regulatory environment rather
introduce innovative ways to enhance the production and trade capacity of avocado value chain actors.
