Strong Growth in Canadian Red Lentil Exports

04-May-2026 05:11 PM

Saskatoon. During the last week of April, robust demand for red lentils in the international market led to increased trading activity and firming prices. It is understood that processors and exporters are facing difficulties in securing sufficient supplies to meet their requirements, as producers are reluctant to sell their existing stocks at current price levels.

Last week, Canada primarily saw bulk exports of red lentils; indeed, shipment volumes have remained strong since the very beginning of the current marketing season. Export performance also remained impressive during the four-month period from January to April 2026. The volume of lentil exports from Canada in April 2026 is considered to be the second-highest level recorded for this specific month since 2021.

Similarly, an increase was recorded in the exports of large-seeded Kabuli chickpeas during April. This led to a strengthening of prices, pushing their rates significantly higher than those of small-seeded varieties or 'sample/feed-grade' chickpeas. The primary reason for the widening price spread between these two categories was the surge in export demand for the former. Domestic demand for feed-grade varieties remained weak.

In fact, doubts persist regarding the production of high-quality, large-seeded Kabuli chickpeas in Mexico this year, while production in both Canada and the United States is also expected to be lackluster.

Anticipating this situation, importers are actively accelerating their purchases in an effort to build up their stocks. Conversely, trading activity for small-seeded Kabuli chickpeas and Desi chickpeas remains sluggish, with prices holding steady. There is currently limited demand for these varieties within the Indian subcontinent.