Australia Exports 91,511t Chickpeas, 300,009t Lentils in Jan

Why It Matters

The sharp decline in Australian pulse exports highlights vulnerability to geopolitical logistics shocks and underscores India’s growing role as a key demand driver, affecting farm income and trade balances.

Key Takeaways

• Chickpea exports fell 85% versus December.
• Lentil shipments dropped 5% month‑on‑month.
• India absorbed 72k chickpeas, 172k lentils in January.
• Middle‑East shipping disruptions threaten UAE shipments.
• Indian lentil demand up 24% from December.

Pulse Analysis

Australia’s pulse sector entered January with a stark contrast between record‑high December shipments and a steep contraction in January. The 91,511 tonnes of chickpeas represent an 85% plunge, while lentils fell 5% to 300,009 tonnes. Such volatility is unusual for a market that typically benefits from stable demand cycles, and it signals that external factors—particularly logistics—are now a decisive variable for Australian exporters.

India’s appetite for Australian pulses continues to expand, now accounting for roughly 79% of chickpea and 57% of lentil exports. The country’s import volumes rose 24% for lentils compared with December, driven by competitive pricing and limited domestic production. Secondary markets such as Pakistan, the United Arab Emirates, and Bangladesh remain important, but their share is increasingly vulnerable to shipping bottlenecks caused by the Iran‑US‑Israel conflict and potential Suez Canal restrictions. These disruptions raise freight costs and delay deliveries, prompting buyers to diversify sources.

Looking ahead, Australian growers and exporters must hedge against logistical uncertainty while capitalising on India’s demand surge. Strategies may include securing alternative maritime routes, investing in forward‑stocking near key ports, and negotiating longer‑term contracts with Indian processors. If geopolitical tensions ease, the sector could rebound quickly; however, persistent supply‑chain friction may force a re‑allocation of market share toward competitors in Canada, Turkey, and the United States. Maintaining flexibility will be essential for preserving Australia’s position as a leading pulse supplier.