Russia, which is considering diversifying into urad and tur production, wants to strengthen pulse trade cooperation with India, the government said on Tuesday.

Are you looking to import or export pulses? The recent decline in mandi prices of pulses, driven by robust imports and a rise in kharif sowing, is expected to impact both domestic and global markets.

It is anticipated that this move by India's central government will assist importers in bringing more Kabuli chana (chickpeas) into the country in advance of the festival season.

Looking to export pulses? India, despite being one of the largest producers of pulses globally, continues to import significant quantities to satisfy its growing domestic demand. The recent spike in pulse prices, driven by inflation and production shortfalls, has opened up substantial opportunities for global exporters.

Following multiple rounds of discussions, India is diversifying its pulse imports to maintain stability in domestic prices. This is being done by signing long-term agreements with Brazil and Argentina, according to two officials with knowledge of the situation. In order to meet its domestic needs, the largest consumer and producer in the world is anticipated to import over 20,000 tons of black gram (urad) from Brazil at present and an unknown quantity of pigeon pea (tur) from Argentina.

To combat the nation's high food inflation, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has issued an order extending the one-year exemption for masur dal, a lentil, from the agriculture and infrastructure development cess when imported into India. This exemption, which has been in place since October 2021, will expire on March 31, 2025.

Pulses, an integral part of global food and dietary practices, have witnessed a significant surge in demand in India.

Constituting more than 30% of Myanmar's total agricultural output, beans and pulses are the nation’s second-most-cultivated crop after the production of rice. Myanmar is the second largest global producer of pigeon peas in the world following India.

Amidst the ongoing diplomatic tussle between India and Canada, there have been speculations on the tightened supply of red lentils (Masur Dal) from Canada, as India is the major importer of Canada’s red lentils.

The government of India decided to continue its stock limit decision on tur and urad till December 31st of this year. On September 25, the Food and Consumer Affairs Ministry issued a notification to limit the stocks for wholesalers and big chain retailers from 200 tons to 50 tons.