Pakistan has emerged as the world’s third-largest exporter of sesame, achieving annual exports worth over $1 billion, the government announced on Thursday. Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, hailed sesame as a high-value cash crop with immense export potential during an international sesame investment conference.
“Sesame’s success highlights its transformative role in Pakistan’s economy,” said Hussain, emphasizing the government’s commitment to further enhancing production and exploring global markets for the crop.
Over the past five years, Pakistan has made remarkable progress in sesame production, with a 455% increase in annual output, reaching 1.119 million tons. Export volumes have also surged by 327%, climbing to 0.760 million tons annually, while export value has risen by 366%, reaching $1.073 billion per year. These achievements have solidified Pakistan’s position as the third-largest sesame exporter globally.
Hussain attributed this success to the inclusion of sesame in the National Oilseeds Enhancement Program (NOEP), which transformed the crop from a neglected commodity into a vital contributor to the economy. “This progress is the result of collaboration between the federal ministry and provincial agriculture departments,” he noted.
The minister urged stakeholders to focus on improving processing technology, adding value to sesame products, and exploring new international markets. He also called on the Ministry of Commerce to play a key role in promoting Pakistani sesame products globally. “Increasing sesame production will not only reduce edible oil imports but also significantly enhance the agricultural sector’s contribution to the economy,” he added.
Pakistan and Turkiye Strengthen Agricultural Cooperation
In a related development, Pakistan and Turkiye have agreed to deepen agricultural cooperation under the Strategic Economic Framework (SEF), aiming to boost bilateral trade and technology transfer. Federal Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain held talks with the Turkish Ambassador to Pakistan on Thursday, emphasizing the mutual benefits of collaboration in agriculture.
The two countries reached key agreements, including joint ventures in agricultural mechanization, aquaculture breeding, and advanced irrigation systems. Both sides also committed to improving trade by adhering to international Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) standards and facilitating Turkish investment in Pakistan’s agriculture and livestock sectors.
Hussain highlighted Pakistan’s ability to supply high-quality agricultural products, such as rice, wheat, mangoes, dry fruits, and livestock products, to the Turkish market. The Turkish delegation acknowledged the potential for increased economic ties and expressed interest in expanding cooperation.
“Pakistan is ready to not only expand exports but also create long-term partnerships with Turkiye to boost agricultural productivity and economic opportunities for both nations,” Hussain said. The two countries agreed to develop an actionable plan to achieve these objectives, marking a new chapter in their agricultural partnership.
