Canadian Lentils and Pulses Market Report 27 Aug 2025

Canadian Lentils: Trusted Supply for Global Buyers

Canada remains one of the most reliable suppliers of pulses in the world, with Canadian lentil exports playing a key role in global food security. The 2024-2025 crop year showed strong international demand, especially for green lentils, red lentils, chickpeas, and dry beans. Buyers from markets such as India, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, and Europe continue to choose Canadian pulses because of their quality, consistency, and the trust they have in Canadian exporters.

Green Lentil Market: Reliable Quality and Global Demand

The green lentil segment has shown stable performance, supported by good growing conditions in Western Canada. Saskatchewan remains the heart of lentil production, with Alberta and Manitoba contributing smaller but important volumes. In 2024-25, Canadian exporters shipped around 0.7 million tons of green lentils, meeting demand from major importers in South Asia and the Middle East.

For 2025-26, the seeded area of green lentils is rising, reflecting confidence from farmers and exporters in the long-term market outlook. Production is forecast to increase as overall Canadian lentil output is expected to reach 2.6 million tons. International buyers continue to show preference for Canadian green lentils due to their grading quality, uniform size, and high protein levels.

Recent weather conditions in Canada have raised concerns about the yield of top-quality crops. At the same time, developments in the shipping system, such as reduced vessel capacity and potential rate adjustments, are expected to influence the market soon.

Red Lentil Opportunities: Expanding Global Reach

Red lentils are Canada’s largest exported pulse, with over 1.2 million tons shipped in 2024-25. India remains the number one destination, followed by Turkey and the UAE. Canadian red lentils are especially competitive in markets where consistent supply and fast shipment times are essential.

For the upcoming crop year, total lentil exports are projected to rise to 2.1 million tons, supported by stronger supply and good crop conditions. While seeded area for red lentils has slightly declined in favor of green lentils, improved yields are expected to maintain a healthy export volume. Carry-out stocks are forecast to rise, and average prices are projected to ease compared to last year. Buyers can continue to count on Canadian red lentils as a steady supply for milling, splitting, and food processing industries worldwide.

Chickpeas from Canada: Expanding Production and Trade

The chickpea sector in Canada is gaining importance, supported by both higher planted area and improving yields. In 2024-25, Canada exported a record 220,000 tons of chickpeas, with Pakistan and the EU being the largest buyers. Although June saw a slight slowdown in export volumes, overall demand for Canadian chickpeas remains strong.

For 2025-26, production is expected to rise again, reaching over 325,000 tons. While exports are projected to be somewhat lower than last year’s record, Canada’s role as a reliable supplier remains clear.

Saskatchewan leads in chickpea cultivation, with Alberta also contributing to volumes. Global buyers, especially in South Asia and the Middle East, are increasingly sourcing chickpeas from Canadian exporters thanks to strong grading standards and competitive shipping logistics. This makes Canada a dependable origin for kabuli chickpeas in particular.

Dry Beans: A Stable Segment in Canadian Pulses

Dry beans remain a valuable part of Canada’s pulse export mix. In 2024-25, exports reached about 405,000 tons, slightly lower than the previous year, with the U.S. and Europe as the main destinations and smaller volumes moving to Japan and Mexico. Despite this moderation, Canadian dry beans are recognized for their consistent quality, serving both industrial food processors and retail markets.

Looking ahead to 2025-26, production is forecast at around 0.4 million tons, reflecting a smaller seeded area but slightly higher yields. Manitoba, Ontario, and Alberta together account for the bulk of production, with Manitoba leading at nearly half of the total.

Supply is expected to remain stable, though exports are projected to ease compared to last year. Carry-out stocks are set to rise, while average prices are forecast to strengthen with tighter North American availability. Canadian exporters remain well positioned to meet international demand, maintaining a reliable supply to multiple markets.

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