Sesame has been gaining more and more space in the Brazilian economy, representing a significant portion of grain production; MT produces 60% of the national crop Mato Grosso is an important pole in the national production of sesame, being responsible for about 60% of the Brazilian crop. The crop, which has a high economic potential, takes off mainly in the Araguaia region, in the northeast of Mato Grosso. The municipality of Canarana stands out in this scenario, with favorable conditions for the cultivation of seeds, which have good yields even in periods of drought. In view of this promising context, researcher Tanismare Tatiana de Almeida, specialist in Agricultural Sciences and in seed production and technology, and current coordinator of the Center for Studies and Analysis of Seeds (CEAS) of the State University of Mato Grosso (Unemat), leads a research project that seeks to develop innovative technological solutions to boost sesame production in the state. The research is funded by the Government of Mato Grosso, through the Mato Grosso Research Support Foundation (Fapemat). The objectives of this project include investigating spatial arrangements, defining the ideal density and spacing that result in superior quality seeds, in addition to developing a technological package that stimulates seed production in Mato Grosso. Sesame plantation “The application of this research in seed production fields is fundamental due to the scarcity of propagation material adapted to the conditions of the State. The interaction between the plant, the production environment and crop management has a direct impact on productivity, especially in aspects such as population density, spacing and adaptation of cultivars. Therefore, it is essential to develop specific management practices for the production of sesame seeds in Mato Grosso” , emphasizes the coordinator. “Given the conditions for carrying out the research in the Cáceres region, it was possible to reach productivity ranging from 880kg/ha to 1,300kg/ha for the K3 cultivar, and from 570 to 670kg/ha for the 'Trebol' cultivar, only with the change in the spacing and population of plants", highlights the researcher. She also adds that other projects with sesame are being developed by the Ceas team due to the support of the State Government, through Fapemat, which is fundamental for the development of these works. Promotion of research The president of Fapemat, Marcos de Sá Fernandes da Silva, points out that research and extension activities developed by universities, in collaboration with public and private entities, play a crucial role in meeting the demands of producers and society. "Through joint efforts, with the search for innovative technological solutions, it is possible to direct resources towards the development of agribusiness in the State, boosting, for example, the production of sesame and strengthening the position of Mato Grosso as an important agricultural center, both in the national and international scenario" , he says.