In the country, the oilseed is also one of the main agricultural export products along with cocoa and cashew.

In Nigeria, sesame harvest is expected to reach 581,000 tons in 2023, representing a 4.3% increase compared to the previous year (557,000 tons). This is noted by AFEX Commodities Exchange (AFEX), the country's leading private agricultural commodities exchange, in a special report published last November.

According to the company, this production, which would mark the third consecutive season of increased harvest, is the result of a 2% increase in the area dedicated to cultivation due to the improved purchase price of sesame seeds, which has stimulated the interest of small farmers.

The price of sesame seeds has experienced a significant increase, with a rise of approximately 40% from one season to the next. This substantial price increase has encouraged farmers to dedicate more land to sesame production to take advantage of favorable market conditions," the report states. Additionally, favorable weather conditions and good distribution of rainfall in major producing states such as Jigawa and Benue contribute to this.

On the other hand, the private agricultural commodities exchange indicates that the growing demand for sesame in the international market has created a lucrative opportunity for Nigerian producers. In fact, the seed is gaining interest in the agri-food industry, where it is used as a topping in confectionery, in baked goods, and in oil form for its health benefits.

In 2022, Nigeria exported approximately 140 billion naira (146.1 million dollars) of this raw material, mainly to China, Japan, Vietnam, Turkey, Greece, and Germany, according to AFEX.

Source of the article: ecomnewsafrique