China Pea Imports Rise as Russia Strengthens Lead and Canada Rebounds

China’s pea import market is undergoing a significant shift, with Russia emerging as the leading supplier and Canada making a strong comeback. After falling from 2.656 million tonnes in 2023 to 1.391 million tonnes in 2024, China’s total pea imports recovered to 1.905 million tonnes in 2025. Imports gained further momentum, reaching 2.240 million tonnes during January–September 2026.

Russia has strengthened its position considerably. Its pea shipments to China increased from 647,000 tonnes in 2024 to 1.144 million tonnes in 2025. By September 2026, Russian supplies had reached a record 1.281 million tonnes, accounting for more than 57% of China’s total imports.

Canada, previously China’s largest supplier, experienced a sharp decline in exports, from 1.579 million tonnes in 2023 to 528,000 tonnes in 2025. However, shipments recovered strongly in 2026, reaching 851,000 tonnes by September.

Other supplying countries have played a smaller role, with their combined shipments falling to 108,000 tonnes during the first nine months of 2026.

Growing demand from the animal feed and plant-based processing industries is supporting China’s pea imports. Meanwhile, Russia’s competitive prices and overland transport links are helping it strengthen its position in the Chinese market, reshaping traditional trade flows.

Contact or subscribe to AgPulse Analytica for latest information, along with deeper market insights and detailed analysis for informed decision-making.