Paraguay’s Sesame Production: A Pillar of the Rural Economy

Sesame production plays a crucial role in the rural economy of Paraguay, providing a livelihood for many families. The high quality of Paraguayan sesame has helped the product gain recognition in Asian and European markets. According to Gilberto Ozorio, president of the Paraguayan Chamber of Sesame Exporters (Capexse), both the confectionery and mechanized varieties of sesame are highly valued abroad, with production estimates for the 2023-2024 campaign ranging between 37,000 and 40,000 tons.

“Paraguay is positioning itself again. We had a presence in the international market before, but in recent years, with the sustainability practices and the quality and safety guarantees we provide, along with compliance with contracts, we are making a strong comeback,” said Ozorio.

Sesame: A Key Income Source for Family Farmers

Sesame remains the primary source of income for many small-scale farmers in Paraguay. For the upcoming 2024-2025 campaign, which starts in the second half of September, there is optimism about an increase in the sowing area. However, Ozorio cautioned that much of the success will depend on favorable weather conditions.

Global Demand and Export Growth

By August of this year, Paraguay had exported 23,200 tons of sesame worth USD 42.41 million.

The main export destinations were:

• Mexico (9,212 tons),
• Japan (7,447 tons),
• Türkiye (1,020 tons),
• Taiwan (1,000 tons),
• Germany (574 tons).

Currently, Paraguayan sesame reaches about 30 international markets, as reported by Capexse.

"There is a strong interest in planting more sesame," said Ozorio. "Producers are making inquiries and requesting seeds, and we can feel the enthusiasm." He added that timely rains before and during the planting season would greatly support the growth of sesame crops.

Expanding Cultivation Areas and Future Goals

In the 2023-2024 campaign, approximately 80,000 hectares were dedicated to sesame cultivation. For the next harvest, a similar area is expected, though Capexse has set a more ambitious target: reaching 100,000 hectares for the confectionery variety and 100,000 hectares for the mechanized variety, with the latter mainly grown in the Chaco region.

“In the past two years, we aimed for a total of 200,000 hectares split evenly between the two varieties. We know this goal is achievable, but weather conditions have hindered progress. Nonetheless, the intention to plant is still strong, and we remain focused on reaching that target,” Ozorio explained.

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