Sudan Sesame Seed Market- Trend Analysis & Forecasts

Sudan sesame seed demand reached ** thousand tonnes in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of **% from 2025 to 2030. The Sudan sesame seed market plays a pivotal role in the global supply chain, contributing significantly to both the economic and agricultural landscapes of the country. Known for its premium-quality seeds, Sudan remains a top exporter globally, driving robust trade partnerships and serving diverse industries worldwide.

Market/ Product Overview

Sudan has emerged as a vital player in the global sesame seed market, producing high-quality seeds primarily for oil extraction, tahini, and confectionery uses. The country’s conducive climate and fertile soil support large-scale sesame cultivation, making it a leading exporter to Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. In recent years, growing global demand for natural and healthy ingredients has further enhanced Sudan’s position in this market. With production volumes averaging over ** thousand tonnes annually, sesame seeds remain one of Sudan’s top agricultural exports, accounting for a significant share of its GDP and export earnings.

Sudan Significance in the Global Sesame Seed Supply

Sudan’s strategic role in the global sesame seed supply chain is underscored by its consistent production of high-grade seeds and its ability to meet international demand. The country's sesame seeds are renowned for their oil content and purity, making them highly sought after by food processors and oil manufacturers. Sudan’s proximity to major importing regions such as the Middle East and Asia provides logistical advantages, facilitating seamless trade. Furthermore, Sudan’s adherence to quality standards has established its reputation as a reliable supplier.

Sudan Sesame Seed Supply & Demand Trend

Sudan has maintained a strong production trend in sesame cultivation due to favorable climatic conditions, traditional farming practices, and an increasing adoption of modern agricultural techniques. Major production areas include Blue Nile, Gedaref, and Kordofan, where smallholder farmers dominate. Between 2015 and 2023, sesame seed production grew at a CAGR of **%, driven by rising export demand and government support for the agricultural sector. The integration of mechanized farming and improved seed varieties has boosted yield per hectare, addressing issues of inefficiency. Despite challenges such as drought and pest infestations, Sudan’s production resilience has reinforced its dominance in the sesame market.

Domestically, sesame seeds are primarily used in oil extraction and as an ingredient in traditional Sudanese cuisines. With the local food processing sector witnessing steady growth, domestic demand for sesame seeds has seen a gradual increase. However, the lion’s share of production is earmarked for export due to the higher profitability of international markets. The rise of small-scale sesame oil mills in urban and rural areas has driven localized demand. Additionally, the cultural importance of sesame in traditional dishes and medicinal uses ensures a stable baseline demand within Sudan.

Market Growth Factors

The global shift towards healthier diets and natural products has spurred demand for sesame seeds, benefiting Sudan’s export market. The country’s competitive pricing, aided by low production costs, makes its seeds attractive to global buyers. Trade agreements and the reduction of export tariffs have enhanced market access. Furthermore, investments in infrastructure, such as storage facilities and transportation networks, have improved supply chain efficiency, ensuring product quality during transit. Increased government focus on agricultural diversification and farmer training programs has also contributed to market growth.

Market Restraints & Challenges

The Sudan sesame seed market faces hurdles such as political instability, fluctuating climatic conditions, and limited access to modern farming equipment. These factors often lead to inconsistent production levels. Additionally, the lack of advanced processing facilities restricts the ability to produce value-added products, limiting revenue potential. Price volatility in international markets and competition from other sesame-producing nations like Ethiopia and India pose significant challenges. High transportation costs and insufficient cold storage facilities further complicate the export process, reducing profit margins.

Sudan Sesame Seed Industry: Supply Chain Constraints & Challenges

The sesame seed value chain in Sudan is hampered by inefficiencies in storage, transportation, and processing. Many farmers rely on traditional storage methods, leading to post-harvest losses due to pest infestations and spoilage. The fragmented nature of the supply chain, with numerous intermediaries, inflates costs and reduces farmers’ earnings. Additionally, inadequate infrastructure in remote farming regions delays the transportation of goods, impacting freshness and quality. A lack of investment in advanced processing units limits the market’s ability to produce refined products like sesame oil and tahini.

Sudan Influence on Global Sesame Seed Price

Sudan’s dominance as a leading sesame exporter grants it significant price-setting power, especially in markets where its seeds are considered premium. However, global price trends are influenced by competing producers and fluctuating demand. Seasonal production cycles and geopolitical developments also play critical roles in determining export prices. Sudan’s ability to negotiate favorable trade agreements further solidifies its influence on international sesame seed pricing.

Over the past decade, sesame seed prices have experienced considerable volatility, driven by fluctuations in production volumes and global demand. Between 2015 and 2020, export prices ranged from US$ ** to US$ ** per metric ton, peaking during years of low production due to adverse weather conditions. Wholesale prices within Sudan have shown a similar trend, reflecting changes in export market dynamics. The introduction of improved logistics and quality certifications has contributed to stabilizing prices in recent years.

Sudan Sesame Seed Market Segmentation

The Sudan sesame seed market can be segmented based on seed type, application, and export destination. In terms of seed type, the market is primarily divided into white and brown sesame seeds, with white sesame dominating due to its high oil content and widespread use in food processing and oil extraction. Brown sesame seeds are mostly used for local consumption and traditional applications. Application-wise, the market includes food processing, oil extraction, confectionery, bakery, and traditional uses. Sesame seeds are a crucial ingredient in Sudanese cuisine, while industrial usage for oil production represents a significant portion of domestic and export-oriented demand. The rising global awareness of sesame oil’s health benefits has further bolstered demand in the oil extraction segment.

From an export perspective, the Sudanese sesame seed market is heavily export-oriented, with key destinations including China, Turkey, Egypt, and several Gulf countries. China remains the largest importer, driven by its demand for sesame oil and tahini. The Gulf countries import primarily for culinary purposes, while Turkey and Egypt have diverse industrial applications. The market’s segmentation is also influenced by regional harvesting and supply patterns, with states like Blue Nile, Gedaref, and Sennar being key production zones, which are often differentiated by seed quality and output volume. Additionally, organic and non-GMO segmentation is emerging slowly, in line with global preferences for traceability and sustainable sourcing. Overall, Sudan’s sesame seed market is shaped by its dual focus on traditional applications and robust export demand, with ongoing trends in health, sustainability, and international trade dynamics driving its evolving segmentation.

Sesame seeds from Sudan are predominantly used in oil extraction, accounting for nearly **% of their end-use. Sesame oil, known for its nutritional benefits and versatile applications, is a staple in cooking, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Another significant use is in the production of tahini and halva, which are popular in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines. The seeds are also used as toppings in bakery products and as an ingredient in health foods. Emerging uses include sesame protein powders and organic products, driven by rising health consciousness worldwide.

Sudan Sesame Seed Trade (Export & Import) Trend

Sudan’s sesame seed export market has seen consistent growth, with major buyers including China, Japan, South Korea, and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Exports account for nearly **% of the total production, with annual trade revenues surpassing US$ ** million. While imports are negligible, Sudan occasionally imports agricultural equipment and processing technologies to support sesame cultivation. Trade policies aimed at reducing tariffs and enhancing international partnerships have bolstered Sudan’s export competitiveness.

Sudan Sesame Seed Market Competitive Analysis

The sesame seed market in Sudan is highly competitive, with numerous players involved in farming, processing, and exporting. Smallholder farmers dominate production, but larger agribusinesses are increasingly entering the sector. Exporters often collaborate with international traders to meet quality and quantity demands. However, competition from other sesame-producing countries necessitates continuous improvements in quality and supply chain efficiency. Certification initiatives, such as organic and fair-trade labels, provide a competitive edge for Sudanese exporters in premium markets..

List of Key Companies (Suppliers/ Processor/ Exporters),

■ ETG Commodities Ltd
■ Lenogulf Sudan
■ Al-Fulk Company
■ Bayrony

Future Outlook

The Sudan sesame seed market is poised for steady growth, driven by rising global demand, ongoing investments in infrastructure, and advancements in farming techniques. Increased focus on value-added products and organic certifications will further enhance market potential. However, addressing structural challenges and fostering political stability remain critical for sustained development.