India’s Sesame Planting Up Slightly, Export Prices Drop

India’s sesame planting for the summer season reached 137,000 hectares as of March 13, marking a slight 2% increase from last year. However, Gujarat recorded a notable decline of 22%, planting only 59,461 hectares. West Bengal expects a robust harvest of around 200,000 tonnes, and Andhra Pradesh's output is estimated between 30,000 and 40,000 tonnes.

Between January and February 2025, India exported 48,013 tonnes of sesame seeds, an increase of 16% from the previous year. Despite higher export volumes, earnings dropped by 5% due to falling prices. The average price per kilogram decreased from USD 2,26/kg to USD 1,85/kg.

Top importing countries included Iraq, the USA, and China.

Brazil Begins Trade with China

Brazil has gained crucial access to China's sesame market, signaling a new direction for global trade. The Brazil Superfoods Summit, scheduled for April 7-8 in Brasília, aims to further develop Brazil’s position as a reliable sesame supplier by connecting local producers with international buyers.

China's Growing Sesame Stocks and Market Demand

As of March 17, sesame stocks at Qingdao Port in China reached 265,000 tonnes. Major supplying countries continue to include Nigeria, Tanzania, and Pakistan.

Pakistan alone exported 177,641 tonnes of sesame to China in 2024, earning about USD 226,5 million, becoming one of China’s key sesame sources alongside Niger and Tanzania.

Nigeria Records Strong Sesame Export Performance

Nigeria's sesame seed exports totaled approximately USD 133,6 million in Q4 2024, reflecting robust demand from key markets like China, Japan, and India.

African Sesame Planting Progress

Sesame planting in Tanzania is nearly complete, though crop development varies regionally. Mozambique's planting shows differences too, with Beira finishing early, while sowing is ongoing in Nacala.

Indian Sesame Market Prices (17 Mar 2025)

Global Sesame Export Prices (Mar-Apr 2025)