LAHORE: Pakistan's sesame exports surge to $1.5 billion this year, driven by growing demand from global food and pharmaceutical industries.
Sajid-ur-Rehman, Director General of Agriculture Research Punjab, said at a seminar that the crop has huge potential to boost the country's foreign exchange reserves. He urged farmers and scientists to focus on improving yields and introducing new varieties to increase production.
Sesame is cultivated on over 1 million acres of land in Pakistan, but farmers face challenges in maximizing its potential due to inadequate management practices and value addition. The crop is a rich source of essential minerals like calcium, iron, and copper, and is widely used in the production of food, medicines, soaps, and perfumes.