Introduction
Sesame seeds are one of the oldest oilseed crops known to humanity, with a rich history of cultivation dating back thousands of years. They are widely used in various cuisines around the world, prized for their nutty flavor and high oil content. In 2025, the global demand for sesame seeds continues to grow, leading to increased production in several countries. This report will analyze the top 10 sesame seed-producing countries in the world, highlighting their production volumes, market share, and key industry insights.
1. India
Production Volume:
India is the largest producer of sesame seeds in the world, with an estimated production volume of over 1.5 million metric tons in 2025. The favorable climate conditions in states like Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh contribute to India’s dominance in sesame seed production.
Market Share:
India accounts for approximately 30% of the global sesame seed market share, exporting its produce to countries like Japan, China, and the United States. The country’s sesame seed industry is dominated by companies such as Deepkala Seeds and Gujarat Ambuja Exports Limited.
Trends:
India’s sesame seed production is expected to continue growing in the coming years, driven by increasing demand for sesame oil in the food industry and the pharmaceutical sector.
2. China
Production Volume:
China is the second-largest producer of sesame seeds globally, with a production volume of around 1 million metric tons in 2025. The major sesame seed-producing regions in China include Henan, Shandong, and Hebei.
Market Share:
China holds approximately 25% of the global sesame seed market share, exporting its products to countries in Asia, Europe, and North America. Key players in the Chinese sesame seed industry include COFCO Corporation and China Agri-Industries Holdings Limited.
Trends:
China’s sesame seed production is expected to remain stable in the coming years, with a focus on improving quality standards and expanding export markets.
3. Sudan
Production Volume:
Sudan is the third-largest producer of sesame seeds globally, with a production volume of around 800,000 metric tons in 2025. The country’s arid climate and fertile soil make it an ideal location for sesame cultivation.
Market Share:
Sudan accounts for approximately 15% of the global sesame seed market share, exporting its produce to countries in the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. Key players in the Sudanese sesame seed industry include Kenana Sugar Company and DAL Group.
Trends:
Sudan’s sesame seed production is expected to grow in the coming years, supported by government initiatives to increase agricultural productivity and promote export-oriented farming practices.
4. Myanmar
Production Volume:
Myanmar is the fourth-largest producer of sesame seeds globally, with a production volume of around 600,000 metric tons in 2025. The country’s traditional farming practices and favorable climate conditions contribute to its high sesame seed yields.
Market Share:
Myanmar holds approximately 10% of the global sesame seed market share, exporting its products to countries in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. Key players in the Myanmar sesame seed industry include Myanmar Awba Group and Myanmar Golden Produce.
Trends:
Myanmar’s sesame seed production is expected to continue growing in the coming years, driven by increasing demand for sesame oil in the food industry and the cosmetics sector.
5. Tanzania
Production Volume:
Tanzania is the fifth-largest producer of sesame seeds globally, with a production volume of around 500,000 metric tons in 2025. The country’s diverse agro-climatic conditions and increasing focus on agricultural development contribute to its growing sesame seed production.
Market Share:
Tanzania accounts for approximately 8% of the global sesame seed market share, exporting its produce to countries in Africa, Asia, and Europe. Key players in the Tanzanian sesame seed industry include Export Trading Group and Tanseed International.
Trends:
Tanzania’s sesame seed production is expected to continue growing in the coming years, supported by government initiatives to promote agricultural exports and improve farming practices.
6. Ethiopia
Production Volume:
Ethiopia is the sixth-largest producer of sesame seeds globally, with a production volume of around 400,000 metric tons in 2025. The country’s diverse agro-climatic conditions and increasing investment in agricultural infrastructure contribute to its growing sesame seed production.
Market Share:
Ethiopia holds approximately 6% of the global sesame seed market share, exporting its products to countries in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. Key players in the Ethiopian sesame seed industry include Midroc Ethiopia Technology Group and Ethio-Asian Industries PLC.
Trends:
Ethiopia’s sesame seed production is expected to continue growing in the coming years, driven by increasing demand for sesame oil in the food industry and the pharmaceutical sector.
7. Nigeria
Production Volume:
Nigeria is the seventh-largest producer of sesame seeds globally, with a production volume of around 300,000 metric tons in 2025. The country’s diverse agro-climatic conditions and increasing focus on agricultural development contribute to its growing sesame seed production.
Market Share:
Nigeria accounts for approximately 5% of the global sesame seed market share, exporting its produce to countries in Africa, Asia, and Europe. Key players in the Nigerian sesame seed industry include Olam International and Dangote Group.
Trends:
Nigeria’s sesame seed production is expected to continue growing in the coming years, supported by government initiatives to promote agricultural exports and improve farming practices.
8. Uganda
Production Volume:
Uganda is the eighth-largest producer of sesame seeds globally, with a production volume of around 250,000 metric tons in 2025. The country’s favorable climate conditions and increasing investment in agricultural infrastructure contribute to its growing sesame seed production.
Market Share:
Uganda holds approximately 4% of the global sesame seed market share, exporting its products to countries in Africa, Asia, and Europe. Key players in the Ugandan sesame seed industry include Nile Agro Industries Ltd and Pearl Rice Mills Ltd.
Trends:
Uganda’s sesame seed production is expected to continue growing in the coming years, driven by increasing demand for sesame oil in the food industry and the pharmaceutical sector.
9. Mali
Production Volume:
Mali is the ninth-largest producer of sesame seeds globally, with a production volume of around 200,000 metric tons in 2025. The country’s favorable climate conditions and increasing focus on agricultural development contribute to its growing sesame seed production.
Market Share:
Mali accounts for approximately 3% of the global sesame seed market share, exporting its produce to countries in Africa, Asia, and Europe. Key players in the Malian sesame seed industry include Compagnie Malienne pour le Developpement des Textiles and Socas SA.
Trends:
Mali’s sesame seed production is expected to continue growing in the coming years, supported by government initiatives to promote agricultural exports and improve farming practices.
10. Burkina Faso
Production Volume:
Burkina Faso is the tenth-largest producer of sesame seeds globally, with a production volume of around 150,000 metric tons in 2025. The country’s diverse agro-climatic conditions and increasing investment in agricultural infrastructure contribute to its growing sesame seed production.
Market Share:
Burkina Faso holds approximately 2% of the global sesame seed market share, exporting its products to countries in Africa, Asia, and Europe. Key players in the Burkinabe sesame seed industry include Groupe Filiales and SOCOSEB.
Trends:
Burkina Faso’s sesame seed production is expected to continue growing in the coming years, driven by increasing demand for sesame oil in the food industry and the cosmetics sector.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the global sesame seed industry is thriving, with several countries leading the way in production and export. India, China, Sudan, Myanmar, and Tanzania are among the top producers, with significant market shares and key industry players. As the demand for sesame seeds continues to rise, these countries are expected to play a crucial role in meeting the needs of consumers worldwide. It is essential for policymakers and industry stakeholders to support sustainable farming practices and promote international trade to ensure the continued growth and success of the sesame seed industry.
