18 Sept 2025
Australia is set to achieve record production of chickpeas and lentils, with both crops expected to reach 1.5 million tonnes each this season, according to insights shared at the Australia Grains Industry Conference. Experts highlighted that favorable growing conditions could unlock significant export opportunities for the country’s pulse sector.
Despite these optimistic forecasts, new-crop sales of chickpeas, lentils, and faba beans have been slow. Delayed crop development due to rain and mild weather in areas south of Central Queensland, coupled with unattractive prices, has kept grower activity subdued. Traders reported that only 5–10 percent of the new chickpea crop had been contracted in recent weeks.
On the production front, minor flooding in the Namoi Valley (north-west NSW) caused localized setbacks for chickpea crops, with some growers experiencing notable losses. Meanwhile, recent rainfall has improved lentil prospects in South Australia and Victoria, though final yields will depend on upcoming weather conditions. Drought-affected regions, particularly north-west Victoria, may see reduced yields, potentially increasing local demand for livestock feed.
From an export perspective, Australia enjoyed a tariff-free period for chickpeas shipped to India until March 31, 2025. However, a 10 percent tariff is now applicable. Last year, competitive trading led to record bulk chickpea shipments from four Brisbane terminals before the tariff came into effect. This year, exports are expected to be more evenly distributed over the first six months of the shipping year.
The international pulse market remains active, with Bangladesh showing early interest ahead of Ramadan 2026, while Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates are also expected to place orders. Australia may face competition from Canada, presenting both challenges and opportunities for local traders.
Regarding faba beans, Australia’s 2024-25 export program is gaining momentum, with shipments expected this month. However, Egypt, the largest importer of Australian faba beans, is currently well-supplied and unlikely to create significant demand in the opening months of the shipping year. Domestically, faba beans remain in high demand in drought-impacted regions, although prices for the new crop are significantly below last season’s peaks.