# Sesame Seed Export

Sesame seed (Sesamum indicum) is one of Nigeria's top non-oil agricultural export commodities. Widely used in food processing, confectionery, oil extraction, and pharmaceuticals, sesame seed enjoys strong and consistent global demand, making it a high-earning export product for Nigerian exporters.

## What Is Sesame Seed and Why Is It Important?

Sesame seed is an oil-rich seed crop valued for its nutty flavor, high oil content, and numerous health benefits.

### Key Uses of Sesame Seed

- Bakery and confectionery products
- Sesame oil production
- Tahini and hummus
- Health foods and supplements
- Pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries

💪 Nutritional & Health Benefits: Rich in healthy fats and protein, high in calcium, iron, and magnesium, contains antioxidants (sesamin & sesamol), supports heart health.

## Why Export Sesame Seed from Nigeria?

### Nigeria's Export Advantage

- Among Africa's leading sesame seed producers
- Competitive pricing and high oil content
- Suitable climate across multiple regions
- Increasing acceptance in premium global markets

Nigeria is recognized globally for natural white and brown sesame seeds.

### Major Sesame Seed Producing States in Nigeria

Sesame seed is widely cultivated in:

- Benue State
- Nasarawa State
- Taraba State
- Jigawa State
- Kano State
- Kebbi State
- Yobe State
- Niger State

8+
Producing States
99%
Purity Standard
48-52%
Oil Content

## Export Grades and Types of Sesame Seed

- Natural White Sesame Seed — High demand in Europe and Asia, used in bakery and oil extraction.
- Brown / Black Sesame Seed — Preferred for oil extraction and traditional medicine.
- Hulled Sesame Seed — Value-added product used in confectionery and snacks.

## Quality Standards for Sesame Seed Export

International buyers require:

- Purity: 99%+
- Moisture content: ≤ 6-8%
- Oil content: 48-52%
- Free from stones, sand, insects, and mould
- Uniform size and color
- Low free fatty acid (FFA) levels

Strict compliance is required for EU, Japan, and USA markets.

## Packaging for Sesame Seed Export

Bulk Export Packaging: Polypropylene (PP) bags (25kg-50kg), jute bags with inner liners.

Retail & Processed Packaging: Vacuum-sealed bags, paper or foil packs.

Labeling should include: Product name and grade, Net weight, Country of origin (Nigeria), Exporter details, Batch/lot number.

## Export Documentation Required

To export sesame seed from Nigeria:

- CAC Registration Certificate
- NEPC Exporter Certificate
- NXP Form
- Phytosanitary Certificate (NAQS)
- Certificate of Origin
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading / Airway Bill
- Fumigation Certificate

Optional certifications: Organic certification, HACCP, ISO 22000.

## Step-by-Step Sesame Seed Export Process

1. Register business with CAC and NEPC
2. Source high-quality sesame seeds from farmers
3. Clean, sort, and grade seeds
4. Conduct laboratory testing
5. Package according to buyer specifications
6. Process export documents
7. Ship and track cargo

## Major Global Markets for Sesame Seed

- Asia: Japan, China, South Korea, India
- Middle East: UAE, Turkey, Israel
- Europe: Netherlands, Germany, France
- Africa: Egypt
- North America: USA, Canada

Japan and China are among the largest importers of Nigerian sesame seed.

## Challenges in Sesame Seed Export

- High quality compliance standards
- Price volatility in global markets
- Contamination risks during storage
- Logistics and port delays

## Tips for Successful Sesame Seed Export

- Focus on high-purity grades (99%+)
- Use proper drying and moisture control
- Work with certified cleaning facilities
- Lock in buyers with contracts
- Monitor international price trends

📌 Conclusion
Sesame seed export from Nigeria remains a high-volume, high-value non-oil export opportunity. With the right quality control, packaging, and compliance, exporters can access lucrative global markets and build long-term trade relationships.

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