India Record-Breaking Pulse Imports in MY 2024/25

India set a historic record by importing a staggering 7.344 million metric tonnes (MMT) of pulses in the marketing year (MY) 2024/25—the highest ever volume in the country’s history.

This surge in imports not only marked a national milestone but also saw several trade partner countries achieving their own record-high pulse exports to India. Among these partners, Australia emerged as the top exporter to India for the first time, shipping a record 1.885 MMT of pulses. Myanmar followed with 1.050 MMT, while Russia contributed 718 thousand metric tonnes (KMT). Other notable exporters included Tanzania with 404 KMT, Brazil with 181 KMT, Sudan with 163 KMT, and Malawi with 77 KMT, among others.

Breaking down the types of pulses imported in MY 2024-25, peas dominated the share with 2.166 MMT, accounting for the largest portion of India’s imports. Desi chickpeas secured the second spot with 1.506 MMT, followed by pigeon peas at 1.223 MMT, lentils at 1.219 MMT, and black matpe (urad) at 820 KMT.

This exceptional rise in pulse imports can be attributed to a combination of factors: a decline in domestic pulse production, favourable import policies, and a growing demand for pulses across India.

Will this upward trend in pulse imports persist into MY 2025/26?