Supply of lentils and potash from Canada expected to continue

22-Oct-2024 08:05 PM

New Delhi. Indian importers are hopeful that despite the diplomatic dispute, there will be no hindrance in the import of lentils and potash (fertilizer) from Canada to India. It is being imported regularly and this trend may continue in future as well.

It is worth mentioning that in recent times, diplomatic relations between India and Canada have soured a lot and both the countries have ordered the expulsion of six officials each. But this has not affected the trade relations of both the countries yet.

It is a different matter that keeping in mind the future risk, some Indian importers have started giving priority to buying lentils from Australia instead of Canada.

Import of lentils, peas and potash from Canada was happening in India on a large scale but in recent times its pace has decreased.

India remains the largest importer of pulses including lentils in the world. It is understood that Indian traders have already signed import contracts from Canada for October and November shipments and the import is expected to be on time.

According to the chairman of the India Pulses and Grains Association, there is currently no problem in importing lentils from Canada.

Red lentils are imported to India mainly from Canada, Australia and Russia, while yellow peas are also imported in large quantities from Canada and Russia.

The consumption of lentils in India has increased to over 25 lakh tonnes while its production is less than 15 lakh tonnes.

Import of lentils is duty free till March 31, 2025. If the trade relationship deteriorates, it will harm both India and Canada.