The global sesame market remained steady this week, with notable shifts across major producing and importing nations. In China, port activity slowed as the country observed New Year celebrations, while India’s sesame imports surged, raising concerns for domestic producers. Meanwhile, stock levels in Burkina Faso, Chad, and Senegal continued to decline as the marketing season progressed.

India: Higher Imports Put Pressure on Domestic Market

Sesame sowing in India saw a sharp decline, dropping to 34,000 hectares from 52,000 hectares last year. At the same time, imports surged 20.7% year-on-year, reaching 150,496 MT, which has increased supply and put downward pressure on prices. Major import sources included Brazil (69,417 MT at USD 1,46 per kg), Nigeria (32,557 MT at USD 1,63 per kg), and Sudan (15,655 MT at USD 1,77 per kg). The drop in Sudanese sesame imports is notable, as India had imported 38,351 MT from the country in 2023.

With international shipments expected to continue until March, concerns are rising over how this influx of foreign sesame will impact Kharif season sowing. Farmers and stockists are closely monitoring market movements, with some choosing to hold back stock in anticipation of better prices. Despite these developments, domestic prices remained stable, with Natural Sortex sesame at USD 1,54 per kg and Hulled Sesame at USD 1,94–1,96 per kg at Mundra Port.

China: Imports Surge While Domestic Buying Pauses

China’s sesame imports have seen a significant increase, with total volumes reaching 1,080,821 MT between January and November 2024, marking a 27.5% year-on-year growth from 847,408 MT in 2023. The country’s largest suppliers included Niger (290,995 MT, up from 168,473 MT), Tanzania (145,341 MT, up from 130,311 MT), and Mozambique (131,831 MT, up from 80,526 MT). However, Pakistan’s exports to China declined slightly to 135,032 MT from 143,528 MT in 2023.

Despite strong import activity, domestic purchasing slowed due to New Year celebrations, keeping port stocks stable at 170,000 MT. As trade resumes in the coming weeks, demand is expected to pick up, potentially affecting global pricing.

Africa: Stock Levels Declining in Key Markets

Burkina Faso: Reduced Supply, Traders Hold Stocks

The marketing campaign in Burkina Faso is progressing steadily, though stock levels in production regions are beginning to decline. Many traders are holding onto supplies in anticipation of better prices, which currently range between USD 1,26 and 1,31 per kg.

Chad: Market Nearing the End of the Season

In Chad, sesame stocks are running low as farmers' cooperatives complete their group sales. Export activity remains strong, with buyers rushing to secure the remaining supplies before the season ends.

Nigeria: Export Prices Hold Steady

Nigeria’s sesame exports remain stable, with prices between USD 1,51–1,52 per kg. Market conditions have been steady, and strong demand continues to support the country’s export sector.

Senegal: Weak Demand as Season Nears Completion

In Senegal, the marketing season is coming to an end, with stock levels dwindling and buyer interest declining. Market activity in Kaolack, Fatick, Kaffrine, and Tamba has slowed significantly. Prices at Kaolack port remain at USD 1,13 per kg, while farm gate prices in Casamance (Ziguinchor, Sédhiou, Kolda) range from USD 0,77 to 0,85 per kg. Wholesale prices have remained stable at USD 0,94 per kg.

Freight and Trade Trends: Easing Logistics Costs

Freight rates saw further reductions this week, benefiting exporters. Shanghai-to-Rotterdam rates fell by 5%, while Shanghai-to-Genoa rates dropped by 4%. Annual freight costs on major shipping routes have declined between 12% and 30%, creating a more favorable trading environment.

Japan’s sesame imports also continued to rise, increasing 10% year-on-year to 193,281 MT. The country’s top supplier remains Nigeria (79,729 MT, up from 60,506 MT). Japan’s average import price rose 5% to USD 1,91 per kg, reflecting stable demand.

Further Observations on Market Trends

As China’s trade activity resumes post-holidays, sesame demand is expected to strengthen, which could drive up global prices. India’s growing import volumes and reduced sowing could create shifts in domestic supply and pricing over the next few months. In Africa, stockists in Burkina Faso and Senegal are holding onto supplies, anticipating price increases in the near future. Market participants will closely watch these developments as the sesame trade adjusts to the changing landscape.





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