Somalia is the eighth largest exporter of sesame in the world

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Somalia is the eighth largest exporter of sesame in the world, despite civil strife, minimal investment, and an absence of policy and regulations. Somalia is one of the few countries in the world where sesame is grown as a traditional crop. Demand is high for this naturally grown and drought-resistant seed. Production of sesame increased by an estimated 40 percent in the past six years, earning Somalia approximately $300 million in income annually, a relatively small amount compared to its potential, mostly due to lack of processing to improve quality.