Global Sesame Market

Around the global sesame market China’s stocks is rise sharply and Pakistan sees export boom. Turkey imports more sesame, while Japan's buying has shifted towards African origins.

China's Stockpiles of Sesame Climb as Prices Ease

At the end of March, sesame seed inventory at Qingdao Port reached around 286,000 tonnes, up nearly 97,000 tonnes from the same time in 2024. However, the Chinese market remains quiet, and prices have dropped slightly. Tanzanian (South) sesame saw a drop of USD 0,04/kg, while Togo-origin sesame fell by USD 0,01/kg due to weak buying interest.

Turkey Boosts Imports While Exports Stay Strong

Turkey exported about 29,647 tonnes of sesame seeds in 2024, a 23% jump from 2023. The January–February 2025 period also saw a 17% increase in sesame imports, reaching 37,334 tonnes, up from 31,921 tonnes a year ago. Brazilian and Niger-origin seeds led the imports this year.

India Sees Early Arrivals but No Price Surprises Expected

Fresh arrivals have started in Tamil Nadu and East Andhra Pradesh, while other states such as Gujarat and Telangana expect new arrivals by mid to late May. Production in Tamil Nadu is reportedly lower this year. Still, with enough domestic stock, prices are likely to remain steady without sharp spikes.

Pakistan Becomes Major Supplier to China

Pakistan’s sesame exports to China surged by over 279% in Jan–Feb 2025, totaling 22,740 tonnes worth USD 28,27 million, compared to just 5,998 tonnes last year. Improved quality, better farming, and smoother trade processes helped push Pakistan into China’s top supplier list.

International Sesame Trade Prices Stay Mixed

The latest international offers for April–May shipment are listed below:

Japan Shifts to African Suppliers as Prices Fall

Japan imported 25,269 tonnes of sesame in Jan–Feb 2025, up 41% from the same period last year. Tanzania led with 6,947 tonnes at an average price of USD 1,57/kg, followed by Nigeria and Mozambique.