India may increase lentil imports to 1.6 mln tons in MY 2026/27

India remains the world’s largest buyer of lentils, and its demand plays a major role in shaping the global market. High pulse consumption in the country is structural, as pulses are one of the key and most affordable sources of protein for the population. Lentils also often substitute chickpeas and pigeon peas when supplies of these crops tighten or prices rise.

In the first half of 2026, India’s lentil imports slowed somewhat thanks to a good rabi crop, estimated at around 1.99 mln tons. However, a weak and uneven summer monsoon reduced planted area under other pulse crops, once again boosting demand for imported lentils.

Analysts forecast that India could raise lentil imports to 1.6 mln tons in MY 2026/27, close to the record 1.68 mln tons seen in 2023/24. Total imports of all pulses in the current cycle could exceed 6 mln tons.

Canada and Australia remain the main lentil suppliers to the Indian market. Competition is intensifying, however: Australia is expecting a large crop and is actively offering red lentils, while lower green lentil production in Canada and the US is supporting high prices in that segment.

Further market dynamics will largely depend on New Delhi’s policy. As of autumn 2026, the basic import duty on lentils stands at 10%, although the government may adjust it depending on domestic supply and inflation. If strong import demand persists, India is likely to remain a key driver of global lentil prices in MY 2026/27.

Tags: Australia, Canada, India, chickpea, imports, lentil