Russia Becomes Top Yellow Pea Exporter to India

Russia has emerged as the leading exporter of yellow peas to India, surpassing Canada for the first time. This shift signals a significant change in trade patterns. Canada once dominated the supply of yellow peas to India and China. APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Exports Development Authority) reports that Russia now controls 50% of China’s yellow pea market. This marks a stark contrast to Canada’s previous 97% share. This change signals a major rebalancing in the global pulses trade.

Surge in Russian Yellow Pea Exports to India

In the first four months of the 2024-25 fiscal year (April to July), Russia exported 441,000 tonnes of yellow peas to India, overtaking Canada’s 393,000 tonnes. This represents a sharp decline for Canada, whose exports fell from 1.38 million tonnes last year.

Russia gains an edge through competitive pricing, direct rupee-based trade, and lower transport costs, which make its yellow peas the preferred choice for Indian buyers.

Price Advantage: A Decisive Factor

For October-November deliveries, Russian yellow peas are priced at USD 4,25 per kg, while Canadian peas are priced higher at USD 4,60 per kg. The cost difference, combined with lower logistics expenses, has allowed Russia to capture a larger share of the Indian market.

According to Bimal Kothari, Chairman of the Indian Pulses and Grains Association (IPGA), pricing remains the most critical factor. Both Russian and Canadian yellow peas are in demand, but buyers are prioritizing affordability.

Russia Diversifies Its Exports to India

Beyond yellow peas, Russia has also expanded its shipments of lentils to India. Between January and September 2024, Russian legume exports to India grew 23 times, solidifying its role as a key supplier in the Indian pulses market.

India’s Duty-Free Import Policy Spurs Trade

The Indian government’s decision to reduce the import duty on yellow peas from 35% to zero has significantly boosted imports. Initially intended as a three-month measure, the duty exemption has been extended through December 31, 2024, encouraging higher imports.

By the end of the year, India’s total yellow pea imports are expected to reach 3.3–3.5 million tonnes, according to APEDA data. By August 2024, 2.2 million tonnes had already been imported, with an additional 700,000 tonnes contracted for September and October deliveries.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Russia’s rise as the leading exporter of yellow peas to India marks a significant shift in the global pulses trade. Competitive pricing, the ability to trade in Indian rupees, and lower logistics costs have given Russia a strong edge over Canada, which had previously dominated the market.





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