India’s pulse imports witnessed contrasting trends in April–May 2025, with significant year-on-year increases in tur (pigeon pea) and urad (black gram) shipments, while chana (chickpea) imports plunged sharply, according to official trade data.

Tur Imports Jump 54%
Tur imports surged 54% year-on-year to 0.19 thousand tonnes in April–May 2025, compared to 0.12 thousand tonnes in the same period last year. Myanmar and Mozambique emerged as the largest suppliers, each shipping 0.08 thousand tonnes, followed by smaller contributions from Tanzania and Malawi. The rise in tur imports was primarily driven by higher shipments from Myanmar and Mozambique amid steady domestic demand, as millers sought to secure supplies ahead of the upcoming festival season.

Urad Imports Rise 16%
Urad imports rose 16% year-on-year to 0.16 thousand tonnes in the same period, up from 0.13 thousand tonnes in April–May 2024. Myanmar remained the dominant supplier, accounting for 0.14 thousand tonnes, while Brazil increased its shipments to 0.01 thousand tonnes, contributing to the overall rise. The firm demand from millers and steady buying interest supported the increase in imports.

Chana Imports Plunge 37%
In sharp contrast, chana imports dropped 37% year-on-year to 0.02 thousand tonnes, down from 0.03 thousand tonnes last year. Australia was the primary source with 0.02 thousand tonnes, followed by Burma with 0.002 thousand tonnes. The steep fall was attributed to comfortable domestic stocks and weak buying interest, as local chana availability remained sufficient to meet demand.

Overall, India’s pulse trade pattern in early FY2025 indicates selective buying based on domestic stock levels and price trends, with millers increasing imports of tur and urad to meet near-term consumption needs while relying on domestic chana supplies.

 

 

Source: Ministry of Commerce and Industry