Let me tell you a quick story.

In 2024, I was helping a new Middle East-based importer who had never sourced sesame seeds from India before. He was cautious. Wanted consistent quality, EU-standards, and most importantly, zero surprises.

Fast forward to 2025, and he’s now importing 5+ containers per month from india.

So what changed?

We didn’t just sell him sesame. We gave him clarity.

If you’re a purchase manager, importer, or procurement head, and you’re planning to source sesame seeds or hulled sesame for your business, this blog is written for you.

Let’s simplify the entire sesame importing process with clear, field-tested strategies that work in 2025.

1. Know What Type of Sesame You Actually Need

There are 3 major types Middle East buyers often confuse:

  • Natural White Sesame Seeds: Whole, unprocessed seeds. Ideal for tahini, bakery, and oil extraction.

  • Hulled Sesame Seeds: Skin removed for a smoother, whiter appearance. Higher oil absorption, preferred in premium snacks.

  • Black Sesame Seeds: Mostly used in specialty cuisines, sweets, and health products.

Pro tip: If you’re in UAE, Saudi, or Qatar, hulled sesame (99.98% Sortex EU grade) is often the most preferred choice. Ask your supplier for EU-certified sortex-cleaned specs to avoid customs hold-ups.

2. Packaging Can Make or Break Your Shipment

You’d be surprised how many buyers lose money due to poor packaging.

Here’s the 2025 gold standard:

  • 25 or 50 kg PP or paper bags with food-grade liner

  • 1 MT jumbo bags for bulk importers

  • Ensure vacuum sealing if you want longer shelf life in humid regions

Also, request labeling in Arabic and English for UAE or Saudi markets. It makes clearance smoother.

3. Traceability and Certifications Matter (A Lot More in 2025)

Buyers in the Middle East are getting smarter and stricter.

So if your supplier can’t provide:

  • Pesticide residue test report

  • EU 2024 or 2025 regulation compliance

  • Certificates like APEDA, FSSAI, Kosher

…you’re already behind the curve.

Many leading sesame exporters in India, including us at Aarvi Group, offer this upfront. Ask for samples and documentation before committing to large volumes.

4. FOB or CIF? Decide Based on Risk

This one’s tricky and often misunderstood.

  • FOB (Free on Board): You take control after the product leaves the Indian port. Great if you have your own freight forwarder.

  • CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight): Safer if you’re new. Supplier handles shipping and insurance till your port.

In 2025, due to rising Red Sea freight instability, CIF is recommended for first-time importers.

5. Build a Long-Term Relationship, Not Just One Deal

This isn’t just a nice line, it’s a competitive advantage.

Many buyers chasing only price end up with inconsistent quality and shipment delays.

Here’s what smart importers do:

  • Lock consistent suppliers with 6-month pricing

  • Get priority during harvest season

  • Access premium lots before others

At Aarvi Group, we reward repeat clients with faster dispatch, better rates, and early lot previews. Because business is about trust, not just transactions.

Top FAQs Importers Ask

Q1: What is the shelf life of sesame seeds?
👉 12 months in cool, dry conditions. Hulled sesame lasts around 9 to 10 months.

Q2: How are Indian sesame seeds different from African?
👉 Indian seeds are often oil-rich, cleaner, and preferred for tahini and sweets.

Q3: What moisture level is acceptable for import?
👉 Below 6 percent is the global standard. Anything more risks mold.

Q4: Can you customize packaging for our brand?
👉 Yes, most top sesame exporters in India offer private label packaging.

Q5: How soon can I get delivery to Jebel Ali or Dammam?
👉 Usually 18 to 24 days from Indian port, depending on customs and vessel availability.

Q6: What’s the minimum order for bulk sesame export?
👉 One 20-foot container (around 18 MT). Some suppliers also offer smaller trial shipments.

Q7: Are sesame seeds gluten-free?
👉 Yes. They are 100 percent natural and gluten-free, safe for sensitive consumers.

Q8: Do you offer SGS or Intertek inspection?
👉 Absolutely. Buyers can request third-party inspection before shipment.

Final Thoughts

The Middle East is one of the fastest-growing sesame markets in the world.
But with strict regulations and rising costs, smart sourcing is more important than ever.

Whether you’re new to importing or scaling your monthly volumes…

The best strategy in 2025?

=> Partner with a reliable, transparent, and export-experienced Indian supplier.