Global Sesame Market Overview

The global sesame market saw increased port stock levels in China, stable pricing in India, and declining supply in West Africa. Meanwhile, the European Union imposed multiple import rejections due to contamination issues. South Korea’s sesame imports saw significant growth, with India emerging as a key supplier.

Compared to last week, China's sesame inventory increased from 207,100 MT to 240,000 MT, while West African stock levels continued to decline.

China: Higher Port Stock as Buying Remains Slow

China’s Qingdao Port stocks have increased to 240,000 MT, up from 207,100 MT last week. The primary sources of these imports are Burkina Faso, Togo, Niger, and Nigeria.

While imports remain high, domestic demand has yet to pick up. This trend aligns with previous weeks, where post-holiday demand remained sluggish despite increasing stock levels.

India: Stable Prices Due To Strong Imports

India’s sesame prices remained stable, supported by strong imports from foreign markets.

India’s Sesame Exports (2024 Yearly Data)

• Total Exports: 255,878 MT (↑13.9% from 224,618 MT in 2023)
• Average Export Price: USD 2,084 per MT (↓ from USD 2,179 per MT in 2023)
• Top Buyers:
  • South Korea: 26,866 MT (↑52.3% from 17,642 MT)
  • USA: 19,415 MT (↑4.9% from 18,504 MT)
  • Vietnam: 17,425 MT (↑38.6% from 12,566 MT)

Compared to last week, India’s export volumes remain strong, with South Korea continuing to increase purchases, overtaking the USA as the largest buyer.

West Africa: Stock Levels Declining, Prices Rising

Burkina Faso: Trade Activity Slowing

Supply is declining, as the marketing season nears its end. Meanwhile prices have increased slightly, ranging from 700–750 FCFA/kg. Fewer wholesalers and exporters are active, with prices in some regions stabilizing at 750–775 FCFA/kg. Compared to last week, prices increased from USD 1,26–1,31 per kg to a slightly higher range. Stock depletion continues, pushing traders to focus on other crops like raw cashew nuts.

Chad: Steady Trade Despite Falling Supply

Rural supply is decreasing in Chad, with only trader-held stocks available. Major trading hubs (Moundou, Fianga, Pala, Doba, Sarh, and Kélo) remain active, as traders meet buyer demand. Prices range from 770–890 FCFA/kg (same as last week).

Senegal: Season Nears End, Stocks Nearly Depleted

No farm-gate stocks remain, and trade is now handled by large traders.

• Central regions (Kaolack, Fatick, Kaffrine, Tamba):
  • Wholesale prices remain stable at 625 FCFA/kg (USD 1,030 per MT).
  • Kaolack Port prices: 650 FCFA/kg (USD 1,070 per MT).

Casamance (Ziguinchor, Sédhiou, Kolda), stocks are at their lowest, with some areas completely depleted. Wholesale trade continues at last week’s price of 550 FCFA/kg (USD 905 per MT). Compared to last week, Senegal’s market situation remains unchanged, except for further stock depletion in some areas.

International Sesame Prices (Updated Offers)

Prices for most major exporters remained stable, except for Pakistan, which lowered its offer from USD 1400-1430 last week to USD 1380-1430 this week.

European Union: Rejections Due to Contamination

The EU rejected multiple sesame shipments due to Salmonella, excessive pesticide residues, and aflatoxin contamination.

Final Takeaway

If China's demand picks up, global sesame prices could rise. Meanwhile, India’s stable imports and rising exports indicate a balanced domestic market. The next few weeks will determine how traders react to ongoing stock depletion in Africa.





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