The strengthening of mechanized production and the weather conditions during the planting and development of sesame crops contributed to achieving better results than in the first quarter of 2024, according to the Union of Production Guilds (UGP). A total of 4,669 tons of sesame seeds were shipped in the first three months of this year, representing revenue of USD 7.8 million. These figures represented a 37% increase in value and a 65% increase in volume, according to data from the UGP. Gilberto Osorio, president of the Paraguayan Chamber of Sesame Exporters (Capexse), explained that this trend was primarily due to planting conditions. In the previous season (2023/2024), planting began late due to unfavourable weather conditions, which impacted the harvest and results. This season (2024/2025), however, planting was possible during the ideal period, almost early in the season. "Climatic conditions, such as ambient temperature and soil moisture, determine these periods. We always try to plant at an ideal time for seed germination," Osorio explained. Regarding the last campaign, he noted that the growth of the mechanized sesame segment in the Eastern region also contributed. "On the one hand, planting in the Eastern region took place between October and November, which contrasts with previous years where planting was only done in the Chaco region, starting in December and January, and, on the other hand, the harvest started earlier than usual," he explained. Regarding field productivity, he believes it was a good year for the confectioner, and he expects the mechanized variety to also yield more than previous harvests. He said it's still too early to talk about results because the Chaco harvest has yet to be completed, but the outlook is positive.