The influence of standards and certification requirements on avocado export in Tanzania

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.