Dragon fruit farming is increasing in Kenya due to the high returns involved and lower maintenance costs.
Currently, the market price of dragon fruit is Ksh800 per kilogram in uptown supermarkets, making it among the highest-priced fruits in the country, according to www.kenyans.co.ke
A huge chunk of dragon fruits consumed by the elites in the country is imported from Vietnam, the largest producer in the world so far.
However, dragon fruit grown in Kenyan farms barely make it to the shelves due to high export demand. But even as more farmers continue to embrace dragon fruit farming, its price is expected to drop in the long run.
Market Demand
Dragon fruit has a large market base in most parts of the country. Europe, Germany, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Belgium, and France provide the best export opportunities for dragon fruit growers.
Other markets where farmers sell dragon fruits include China, Japan, Malaysia, and the United States. Its demand peaks during special holidays, including Christmas, Ramadhan, and Easter.
August and September are the peak months for most dragon fruits, and the main season runs during the summer months.