Challenges may increase for Australian pulses exporters
08-May-2025 07:49 PM
Melbourne. In the coming months, Australian pulses exporters may face increasing challenges in the global market due to shifting demand patterns in major importing countries and rising shipment costs.
The Indian government has imposed an 11 percent customs duty on Desi gram imports, while domestic prices have softened following a normal production season.
In Pakistan, another major gram importer, the economic situation is deteriorating. Foreign exchange reserves have declined sharply, and the Pakistani rupee has weakened significantly against the US dollar, making imports more difficult.
Bangladesh, a consistent importer of Australian gram and lentils, is also showing signs of economic instability. Similar challenges are emerging in countries like Sri Lanka and Nepal, where financial constraints could limit pulse imports.
India has traditionally been the largest importer of Australian gram and lentils. In May 2024, the Indian government made Desi gram imports duty-free, leading to a sharp surge and record import levels.
However, from March 2025, an 11 percent duty was re-imposed. Though this duty is not very high, the improved domestic supply of gram in India and falling prices are slowing down its import momentum.
Besides Desi gram, Australia exports lentils, faba beans, lupin, peas, and moong, though in smaller quantities. The import of moong into India has been banned since 2022. Most Australian faba beans are exported to African countries, including Egypt, as well as West Asia.
If the 100 percent import duty on Canadian peas remains in place in China, Australian producers and exporters might find an opportunity to boost pea exports to that market.
However, frequent shortages of shipping vessels at Australian ports, particularly for routes to South Asia, pose a logistical hurdle.
These ships often return empty after unloading, which is expected to push up freight costs further.
Meanwhile, the sowing of pulses has commenced in Australia.