The sesame commercial operation circuit has already begun, and producers currently have positive expectations. Sesame growers are beginning to negotiate with buyers and compete with other countries, according to the Paraguayan Chamber of Sesame Exporters (Capexse). The union's president, Gilberto Ozorio, commented that they are working on the purification and preparation processes for export, gradually shipping the products. "The competition is abroad, with other countries also seeking to develop their production," he told 920 AM. Prices are determined according to supply and demand. Although demand is reported to be slightly more static than usual, among the leading markets is Japan, the main buyer of the confectionery variety; followed by Taiwan, which buys both varieties, and the European Union countries, which focus on the confectionery variety, while the mechanized variety is sold in Mexico and the Middle East. "We are reaching approximately 30 or 35 countries each year," he mentioned. You may be interested in: Paraguay aims to consolidate itself as a viable and serious supplier, according to Rediex. Regarding the local market price, he said it varies widely, as it is based on African prices and currently stands at between USD 1,650 and USD 1,600 per ton. However, depending on quality, a premium of up to USD 300 per ton can be obtained. " It's quite competitive; it's a year of endurance racing, not sprinting," he said. Local plan On the local level, he said demand has remained constant for the past four or five years. Some industries use the raw material, especially to produce hulled sesame; others produce oil on a smaller scale. In addition, there is an industry that produces sesame paste in Ciudad del Este, which accounts for a small portion of production. The grain harvest began early in the Eastern region, with good-quality grains, a novelty this year. "According to reports, we are reaching approximately 15,000 to 18,000 tons of confectioner's grain and 30,000 tons of the mechanized variety," he stated.