Part 4: Turkey Expanding Lentil Imports Drive Supplier Competition

Related article:

Part 1: Canada Strong Lentil Production Base Supports Global Export Leadership

Part 2: Australia Rising Influence in the Global Lentil Market

Part 3: Russian Lentil Production and Exports Expanded in 2025/26

Part 5:- India Lentil Market Outlook: Imports, Domestic Supply and Global Trade Reshape Dynamics

Turkey has strengthened its position in the global lentil market, with rising import demand increasingly shaping regional trade flows. A decline in domestic pulse production in 2025, combined with strong domestic consumption and processing requirements, encouraged Turkey to increase imports from major producing and exporting countries.

Turkey’s lentil imports continued to expand in 2026. From January to July, the country imported more than 0.5 million tonnes, an increase of approximately 70% compared with the same period in 2025. Canada remained the largest supplier during this period, followed by Kazakhstan and Russia, highlighting strong competition among key origins.

In 2025, Turkey’s lentil imports reached approximately 795 KMT, up from 646 KMT in 2024, making it the country’s second-highest import volume on record. Lentils accounted for around 53% of Turkey’s total pulse imports. Kazakhstan was the leading supplier, shipping approximately 387 KMT, followed by Canada at 223 KMT and Russia at 156 KMT. The sharp increase in supplies from Kazakhstan and Russia indicates that Turkey is diversifying its sourcing base, particularly toward geographically closer origins in Central Asia and the Black Sea region, while Canada remains an important supplier of high-quality lentils.

Canada has traditionally been Turkey’s dominant lentil supplier. In 2024, Canadian shipments totalled approximately 322 KMT, accounting for nearly 50% of Turkey’s total lentil imports. Kazakhstan held a 28% share, while Russia accounted for approximately 15%. However, the significant increase in shipments from Kazakhstan and Russia in 2025 points to a more diversified import structure and growing competition for market share.

Turkey’s role in the lentil trade extends well beyond imports. The country is an important processor, trader and re-exporter, supported by a well-developed pulse-processing industry. Imported lentils can be cleaned, graded, split and packaged in Turkey before being re-exported to markets across the Middle East, Africa and other regions. Iraq, Sudan, Algeria and Egypt are among the key destinations for Turkish lentil exports.

Looking ahead, competition among suppliers is expected to remain strong. Kazakhstan and Russia are gaining importance through geographic proximity, expanding production and competitive pricing, while Canada is likely to retain a significant position because of its established market presence, consistent supply and product quality. At the same time, Turkey’s expanding processing and re-export activities will continue to strengthen its role as a key hub in the international lentil trade.

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