HS Code:
Sesame oil and its fractions (HS Code: 151550) encompass crude and refined sesame oil, derived from sesame seeds. This category includes both virgin sesame oil and fractions obtained through processes like refining or fractionation. Sesame oil is widely used in culinary applications, particularly in Asian cuisines, and has growing demand in the health and cosmetics industries due to its antioxidant properties and nutritional benefits. Global trade in this category is influenced by agricultural production capacities, regional consumption patterns, and trade policies.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $1.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
UN Comtrade Database and ITC Trade Map
$350 million USD
29.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$280 million USD
23.3% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$150 million USD
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$100 million USD
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$80 million USD
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
8.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
30% (in certain developing markets with protective agricultural policies)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like ASEAN or EU preferential tariffs)
Rising demand for organic and cold-pressed sesame oil
Increased export opportunities for producers in India and Africa, with premium pricing for certified organic products
2021-2023
Growing use in cosmetics and personal care products
Diversification of market applications, driving demand in North America and Europe
2020-2022
Fluctuations in sesame seed supply due to climate change
Price volatility and supply chain disruptions affecting trade volumes, particularly for exporters like India and Sudan
2019-2023
The Indian government introduced subsidies and certification support for organic sesame oil exporters to capture growing demand in Europe and the US.
March 2023
Expected to boost India's market share by 5-10% in the organic segment over the next two years.
The European Union updated its regulations on pesticide residues in imported edible oils, including sesame oil, requiring additional testing.
January 2023
Potential delays and increased costs for exporters from developing countries; compliance may restrict smaller players.
A bilateral agreement reduced tariffs on sesame oil imports from China to the US as part of broader agricultural trade negotiations.
October 2022
Increased Chinese sesame oil exports to the US, potentially impacting other suppliers like India.