Widespread Crop Destruction in Gujarat Due to Unrelenting Rains
This week, the Indian sesame market has been severely impacted by heavy rains in Saurashtra-Gujarat, leading to widespread crop destruction. The region, already struggling with low sesame cultivation this year, now faces even greater challenges. Reports indicate that the excessive rainfall has significantly damaged sesame plants, with many crops getting burnt as a result. The impact is not limited to India; Pakistan has also experienced similar weather conditions, resulting in approximately 70% of their sesame crop being of poor quality. This widespread crop damage is causing deep concern among farmers and traders alike, as the future of this season’s sesame harvest looks increasingly uncertain.
Quality Concerns and Price Speculations in the Sesame Market
The damage caused by the heavy rains is expected to create a shortage of high-quality sesame in the market, particularly in key producing regions such as Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh. This anticipated shortage is likely to drive up sesame prices, especially if domestic demand remains strong. Market expert Jignesh Gadhiya predicts that the price of white sesame could rise by approximately $0.06 per kilogram, due to the ongoing crop damage. Last week’s sesame prices were around $1,64 to $1,65 per kilogram. With continued weather challenges, further fluctuations in sesame prices are expected in the coming weeks.
Brazilian Sesame Imports Expected to Influence Market Prices
As the domestic sesame crop continues to suffer, imported sesame from Brazil is beginning to play a critical role in the Indian market. So far, between 8,000 to 10,000 metric tons of Brazilian sesame have arrived, with additional shipments expected in September. The high quality of these imports could help stabilize the market somewhat, providing much-needed relief amidst the domestic supply shortage. However, despite these imports, the overall shortfall in high-quality domestic sesame and the possibility of increased demand could still lead to rising prices. The market’s ability to stabilize will depend on the continued influx of Brazilian sesame and how well it can offset the domestic challenges.
The Indian sesame market is currently under significant pressure due to widespread crop damage from heavy rains in key producing regions. While Brazilian sesame imports may offer some stabilization, the shortage of high-quality domestic sesame and potential demand increases are likely to drive further price hikes. The full extent of the crop damage and its impact on market prices will become clearer in the coming weeks as the situation continues to unfold.