Higher domestic prices of sesame seed, coupled with the ongoing economic crisis, are likely to hit exports of the commodity. Exporters estimate that the sesame seed exports may plummet around 50 per cent during March-April 2008-09.
The domestic prices of sesame seed have remained firm in the wake of lower production this year. The seed prices in Gujarat are presently hovering around Rs 1,100 - 1,350 per 20 kg depending upon the quality of the produce. “In the international market, China, Sudan and some of the African countries are selling sesame seeds cheaper by Rs 100 per 20 kg than the prices quoted in India. This has impacted the export prospects of sesame seed from India,” said Ramesh Mukhi, a leading sesame seed trader and former president of Unjha Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
“As far as sesame seed is concerned, we are not competitive,” said Sanjay Shah, chairman of Indian Oilseeds & Produce Exporters Association. “In addition to this, the present financial crisis has further squeezed the global demand of various commodities including sesame seed,” he added.