Russia Sets New Record in Pulse Production with Strong Yields in MY 2025/26

Russia is recognized as one of the major global players in the production and export of legumes (pulses), supplying significant quantities to international markets. The country has continued to strengthen its position in the global pulse trade due to increasing production, improving yields, and expanding cultivation areas.

Recently, the Russian Federal State Statistics Service (Rosstat) released its latest crop production data for the marketing year (MY) 2025/26. The report highlights exceptionally strong performance across the country’s pulse sector, indicating a record-breaking year for pulse production. According to the official statistics, Russia achieved the highest pulse production level in its history during MY 2025/26.

Total pulse production in the country reached approximately 8 million metric tonnes (MMT), representing a substantial 48% increase compared to the previous marketing year. This remarkable growth was achieved despite only a modest expansion in cultivated area. The total acreage under pulses in MY 2025/26 was recorded at 4.1 million hectares (Mha), reflecting an increase of just 5% compared to the previous year. This indicates that the surge in production was largely driven by improved productivity and higher yields rather than significant expansion of planted area.

Among the different pulse crops, peas remain the dominant crop in Russia’s pulse sector, accounting for approximately 72% of the country’s total pulse production in MY 2025/26. Pea production reached a new all-time high, with output increasing by 50% compared to MY 2024/25. The significant growth in production was primarily driven by record yields, even though the total acreage under pea cultivation declined slightly by 2% compared to the previous marketing year.

Similarly, chickpea production in Russia also reached a record level in MY 2025/26. Total chickpea output increased by 38% compared to MY 2024/25, supported by an expansion in the area planted. Chickpea acreage rose by 9% compared to the previous marketing year, contributing to the strong growth in overall production.

Lentil production also recorded a historic milestone in MY 2025/26, achieving its highest level on record. Output increased significantly by 57% compared to MY 2024/25. This sharp rise was supported by a substantial increase in cultivation area, with lentil acreage expanding by 31% compared to the previous year.

Overall, the MY 2025/26 season has marked a historic year for Russia’s pulse sector, driven by strong yields, moderate expansion in acreage, and rising production across key pulse crops including peas, chickpeas, and lentils.

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