The Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) has issued an alert concerning a forged letter that falsely claims to authorize the export of raw macadamia nuts. The letter, which is currently circulating, is dated May 21, 2025, and bears the fake signature of the Agriculture Cabinet Secretary.
In an official statement released on Sunday, May 25, AFA stated that the fraudulent letter is not authentic and did not originate from any official government or ministry source. The letter, purportedly signed by the Cabinet Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, has been declared a forgery and is considered part of an illegal scheme targeting the macadamia industry.
AFA reiterated that the ban on the export of raw (in-shell) macadamia nuts is still in effect, with no changes or exemptions having been issued. According to the authority, the letter is a deliberate attempt to mislead stakeholders and exporters in the nuts and oil crops sector.
“The letter in circulation is a forgery and has not been issued through any official or legal channel,” AFA stated. “As provided under Section 43 of the Agriculture and Food Authority Act, 2013, the ban on the export of raw (in-shell) macadamia nuts remains in force. No exemptions have been granted.”
The authority emphasized the seriousness of the issue and confirmed that it has reported the matter to law enforcement agencies. The incident has been referred to the Inspector General of Police to launch a full investigation aimed at identifying and prosecuting those involved in drafting, circulating, or attempting to use the fraudulent document.
As part of its response, AFA called on all stakeholders, including exporters and relevant authorities, to be vigilant and to report any suspicious activities or documents related to macadamia exports. The statement stressed the importance of adhering strictly to legal procedures and avoiding involvement in illegal trade practices that could jeopardize the integrity of the agricultural sector.
The warning comes at a time when the government is working to stabilize and grow the macadamia industry, which has become a valuable component of the country’s agricultural exports. Exporting raw macadamia nuts has long been restricted to promote local value addition, encourage investment in processing, and boost returns for farmers and other local stakeholders.
AFA’s move to clarify the situation and affirm the existing legal framework is aimed at maintaining order and transparency in the sector. The authority expressed concern that the forged document could mislead well-meaning businesses into engaging in unlawful export activities, potentially leading to serious legal consequences.
The statement concluded with a call for continued cooperation among industry players, government agencies, and the public. “We urge all exporters, enforcement agencies, and the general public to disregard the forged letter in its entirety. Avoid engaging in or facilitating any export of raw (in-shell) macadamia nuts and report any suspicious activities to AFA or the relevant authorities.”
This incident highlights the need for vigilance and integrity in the management of agricultural resources and reinforces the government’s stance on maintaining regulatory control to protect local industries.
