The growth of sesame cultivation in Brazil, opportunities and challenges

Sesame cultivation in Brazil has shown significant growth, with emphasis on the 2023/24 harvest, when the planted area increased by 83%, from 361,000 to 660,000 hectares. This growth reflects the growing interest of producers in the grain, which is a viable option due to its low production costs and good profitability when compared to second-crop corn. However, the sesame market still faces challenges related to productivity, harvest mechanization, and concentration of buyers. The report by Itaú BBA's Agro Consulting analyzes the opportunities and risks involved in the development of this crop in Brazil. The expansion of sesame cultivation in Brazil is evident. From 2023 to 2024, the cultivated area jumped by 83%, one of the largest agricultural expansions in the country, second only to soybeans. The increase in production was also notable, with growth of 107%, reaching 361,000 tons. The crop has attracted producers due to its economic viability, especially in years when the ...