Turkey’s trade in lentils, chickpeas, and field peas demonstrated mixed outcomes in October, with significant import increases and varied export performances, according to data from the Turkish Statistical Institute (TURKSTAT).

Lentil Imports Soar, Exports Decline

Lentil imports in October jumped 126% compared to September, reaching 55,545 tonnes, driven by shipments from Canada (22,374 tonnes), Kazakhstan (19,178 tonnes), and Russia (11,875 tonnes). However, cumulative imports for the year stood at 429,490 tonnes, down significantly from 745,171 tonnes during the same period last year.

On the export side, Turkey’s lentil shipments declined 9% month-over-month to 54,656 tonnes in October. Despite the dip, total exports for the year so far rose to 531,930 tonnes, up from 450,715 tonnes in the previous year. Iraq was the largest buyer, importing 16,005 tonnes, followed by Algeria (6,786 tonnes) and Egypt (6,026 tonnes).

Chickpea Imports Surge, Exports Dip Slightly

Chickpea imports into Turkey also saw a significant increase in October, rising to 32,352 tonnes, up from 19,052 tonnes the previous month. This brought year-to-date imports to 229,234 tonnes, reflecting a 4% growth compared to last year. Russia led the pack as the top supplier, shipping 19,701 tonnes, followed by Mexico (4,147 tonnes) and Kazakhstan (3,456 tonnes).

Meanwhile, chickpea exports softened slightly, declining 3% from September to 31,546 tonnes in October. However, cumulative exports for the year totaled 290,364 tonnes, up from 220,220 tonnes during the same period in 2022. Iraq was the primary buyer, receiving 11,133 tonnes, with Algeria (3,188 tonnes) and Italy (2,296 tonnes) trailing behind.

Field Pea Trade Shows Strong Growth

Field pea trade exhibited robust activity in October. Exports rose by 5% month-over-month, reaching 33,176 tonnes. Iraq was the leading destination with 13,454 tonnes, followed by the United States (5,904 tonnes) and Cameroon (4,000 tonnes). Cumulative exports for the year climbed to 248,706 tonnes, up from 231,094 tonnes during the same period in 2022.

On the import side, Turkey recorded a 24% increase in field pea imports in October, totaling 37,224 tonnes, compared to 29,992 tonnes the previous month. Year-to-date imports reached 261,067 tonnes, down from 317,319 tonnes last year. Russia dominated as the primary supplier, shipping 33,739 tonnes, with Ukraine (2,508 tonnes) and Kazakhstan (815 tonnes) following.

Turkey’s pulses trade in October underscores dynamic shifts in global demand and supply. While imports showed robust growth for the commodities, export performance varied. With key partners like Canada, Russia, and Iraq driving trade flows, Turkey continues to play a pivotal role in the global pulses market.

Source: TURKSTAT