Key Exporting Countries and Pricing

• Pakistan: Prices for Hybrid/Sindh sesame seeds remain unchanged at $1,700 to $1,720 CNF for May/June shipments. Stability in prices reflects a balanced supply-demand situation in the region.
• Nigeria: The price for Lafia Sesame variety continues at $1,750 to $1,780 CNF for upcoming shipments, showing consistent demand for this variety.
• Brazil: Brazilian Whitish Sesame seeds are currently priced between $1,500 to $1,550 CNF for May/June shipments. This marks a continued adjustment from previous higher rates, aimed at increasing competitiveness in global markets.
• Chad: Prices for Chad’s whitish sesame seeds hold at $1,750 to $1,800 CNF for the same shipment window, maintaining last week’s stability.
• Sudan: The pricing for Sudan's Premium quality Gadaref Sesame remains steady at $1,920 to $1,940 CNF, illustrating ongoing demand despite regional challenges.
• Burkina Faso: Both whitish and mixed sesame varieties from Burkina Faso are priced at $1,920 to $1,940 CNF, unchanged from the previous week, indicating sustained demand.

European Import Trends

• Greece: Continues to be the leading EU importer from India, with stable demand reflected in consistent import volumes and prices. Recent figures show Greece importing approximately 200 tons monthly at an average price of $2,500 per metric ton.
• The Netherlands: Regular imports at stable prices indicate a continuous demand for sesame within the Dutch markets, with recent data showing imports of around 150 tons per month at an average price of $2,550 per metric ton.
• Germany: The import data shows consistent demand for high-quality sesame seeds, with Germany importing about 100 tons per month, reflecting a preference for premium varieties priced at around $2,600 per metric ton.
• Sweden: Continues to show the highest average price among EU countries, emphasizing its market's demand for premium sesame varieties. The latest data indicates Sweden imports roughly 70 tons per month at an average price of $3,100 per metric ton.

China’s Sesame Stock and Import Trends

• Qingdao Port Inventory: As of April 22, 2024, the stock at Qingdao port reached approximately 218,597 MT, an increase from the previous week's 207,900 MT.

India’s Sesame Crop and Export Outlook

• Summer Crop: Promising signs are evident in the quality of India's summer sesame crop, with the harvest expected from mid to end of May. IOPEPC is scheduled to announce the crop estimate on May 4, 2024, which will provide further market direction.

Harvest and Market Outlook in Tanzania and Brazil

• Tanzania: The expected crop size remains at about 140,000 MT, despite potential delays due to weather conditions affecting the harvest start.
• Brazil: The new crop is anticipated to commence by June, with an expected yield of 130-140 thousand MT. Notably, about 40 to 50% of Brazil's sesame cargo has already been sold, hinting at strong pre-market interest.

This week's sesame seed market analysis underscores a complex interplay of regional supply conditions, geopolitical impacts, and strategic market adjustments. Stakeholders are advised to closely monitor these developments to navigate the evolving landscape effectively.