Australian pulse production is on track to reach record levels this season, driven by robust international demand, particularly from India, a key consumer of chickpeas and lentils, according to agribusiness specialist Rabobank. The 2024/25 pulse harvest—including chickpeas, lentils, faba beans, lupins, and field pea is expected to surpass last year’s totals production, thanks to increased planting area and despite challenging dry conditions in some areas.

Before September’s frost events impacted southern growing regions, Australia was poised to deliver its second-highest pulse harvest on record, estimated at just under 4.5 million tonnes. Although frost has reduced harvest yields, there is still hope for post-frost regrowth and recovery in production.

Chickpeas are the primary driver behind this production surge, with a remarkable 88% increase in acreage planted compared to the previous year. This expansion is primarily due to reduced production in India, which has led the Indian government to remove its chickpea import tariff to support domestic supply and address high prices.

For lentils, farmers anticipate a modest production increase for the upcoming harvest, contingent on successful post-frost regrowth. The area planted with lentils has also increased by 17% compared to last year, reflecting positive market conditions.

As growers capitalize on strong demand from India and other markets, the outlook for Australian pulse production remains promising, with expectations for sustained high prices and continued growth opportunities in the international market.

Source: Robobank Australia