Mr Mahesh Raja Manglani opened the presentation by noting the high interest in Pakistan’s sesame crop size, production quality, and the impact of rains and floods. Pakistan has emerged as a record-breaking producer: from only 5–6,000 MT in 2012, output reached a historic high in 2024 as farmers were encouraged by strong prices. Around 1.7 million acres were planted last year, largely under hybrid varieties that have replaced traditional Sindh types due to higher yields. Expectations had been as high as 544,000 MT, but unfavorable weather and other challenges reduced actual output to about 340,000 MT. Export prices, which began at around 1,700 USD/MT, later softened to 1,180–1,200 USD/MT.
He explained that in 2025, Pakistan’s sesame crop faced both promise and risk. Punjab accounted for about 75% of production and Sindh 25%. The total planted area was estimated at around 1 million acres, down about 35% from the previous year’s 1.7 million acres, as many farmers shifted away from sesame due to disappointing returns. While early season weather was favorable, with consistent temperatures of 34–36°C, heavy rains and flooding created challenges in non-traditional growing areas and damaged some fields where replanting was not possible.
Despite these issues, crop quality has so far been good – with high oil content, low FFA, no aflatoxin problems, and no major pest or disease outbreaks. Production is forecast at 300,000–320,000 MT, based on an average yield of 320 kg per acre. However, floods in Punjab may have already damaged about 10% of the crop, and further losses in Sindh could reduce national output by another 12–13%. He underlined that the full impact of crop volume and quality will only become clear in the next two weeks, depending on weather conditions and flood levels.
He outlined some key trade factors for Pakistan’s sesame sector. The Pakistani rupee has been relatively stable over the past two years, creating a favorable environment for exporters and contract commitments. Logistics are efficient, with China as a major buyer, plenty of container availability, and a direct vessel transit time of 18–21 days. Government agencies are also supporting farmers through awareness programs, while the Sesame Exporters Association of Pakistan is working with the Trade Development Authority and Ministry of Commerce to explore new markets.
At the same time, monsoon timing remains a major challenge – whether pre-harvest or post-harvest, excessive rains can hurt yields and quality. He noted that while last year there were significant FFA and aflatoxin issues, this year the quality outlook looks stronger, supported by better storage infrastructure investments.
Domestic demand is also playing a key role: stockists and oil crushers are buying actively, keeping local prices firm. Even though overseas buyers are pushing for lower offers, Pakistani exporters are unable to reduce prices because of this strong local demand. He added that with sesame yielding about 20 kg of oil compared to rapeseed, local crushers remain attracted to sesame, further supporting the market.