Urad market continues to decline; imports likely to rise
22-Aug-2026 12:40 PM
Prices of Urad in the domestic market continued to fall on Friday due to weak demand from pulse mills. According to traders, despite the onset of the peak consumption season, millers are currently purchasing only enough to meet immediate requirements. Meanwhile, traders remain cautious about any significant market rally, anticipating increased imports in the coming months. However, demand for Urad dal is expected to improve as the festive season approaches. While this could somewhat curb the current downtrend, there are currently no strong indications of a sharp market surge.
Weak domestic arrivals
Arrivals of summer Urad in producing markets remain lower compared to last year. Demand for Urad Mogar and Gota is expected to pick up in the coming days. The Urad crop in Karnataka's Bagalkot region is reported to be very good this year, which could provide some support to domestic supplies later on. Currently, due to sluggish demand for Urad dal, millers are buying based on immediate needs rather than building up stocks. Consequently, despite demand for high-quality produce in the markets, the foundation for a price rally remains weak.
Low port stocks, but imports likely to rise
Urad stocks at ports are currently reported to be low. Demand for the pulse is expected to rise in the coming days as the consumption season begins. However, imports are also expected to increase alongside rising domestic demand. For this reason, the likelihood of a significant price surge remains limited, despite the anticipated rise in market demand.
Supplies from Brazil to increase in August-September
Urad imports from Brazil are expected to continue in small consignments throughout August. A relatively larger consignment is anticipated in the last week of September. Along with increased supplies from Brazil in September, good domestic supplies are also expected from Maharashtra and Karnataka. Subsequently, arrivals of the new Urad crop are expected to begin in the producing markets of Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan starting in October. If weather conditions remain favorable in key producing regions, the outlook for domestic market arrivals and production could improve.
Imports Continue to Decline
According to available data, Urad imports during the January–June period of the current year fell by over 19 percent to approximately 2.27 lakh tonnes, compared to around 2.81 lakh tonnes during the same period last year.
Market Outlook
Overall, factors such as sluggish domestic arrivals, low port stocks, and the prospect of rising demand during the upcoming festive season could provide support to the Urad market. However, a significant surge in prices appears unlikely given the rising supplies from Brazil, the potential for increased imports, and the currently limited buying activity by pulse mills. In the near term, the downside in the Urad market is likely to be limited, with the market expected to stabilize as demand improves. The arrival of the new crop and the availability of imported stocks will play a crucial role in determining the future direction of the market.